List of extinct United States counties
Encyclopedia
This article provides an incomplete list of U.S. counties that no longer exist. They were established by a state, provincial, colonial, or territorial government. Most of these counties were created and disbanded in the 19th century; county boundaries have changed little since 1900 in the vast majority of states. A county is repeated on the list if its jurisdiction changed from one state/colony/territory to another.
This list includes (but is not limited to) counties that were renamed but retained their territorial integrity, or counties that were transferred wholesale to another state when it was separated from another state (Massachusetts
counties transferred to Maine
; Virginia
counties transferred to West Virginia
).
Alabama
Alaska
The State of Alaska has never created any counties
, although the state has organized 18 boroughs and the United States Census Bureau
has divided the rest of the state, known as the Unorganized Borough
, into 11 census areas.
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Colorado Territory was formed from the lands of four organized territories: Kansas to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and Nebraska to the northeast. Before Colorado Territory was organized, all of these except Nebraska had declared county boundaries that included part of modern-day Colorado.
Upon the organization of Colorado Territory in 1861, which became law on February 28, these counties ceased to have jurisdiction in Colorado.
Green River County, Utah Territory was also created on March 3, 1852, but never organized; it was dissolved in 1857 and recreated in 1859. After losing land to Colorado Territory
in 1861 and Wyoming Territory
in 1868, Green River County was finally dissolved in 1872.
Beaver County, Utah Territory was formed on January 5, 1856 from parts of Iron and Millard counties, and like other Utah counties, ceased to have jurisdiction in Colorado.
, Kansas Territory provided for a number of counties in what would become Colorado, but organized none of them before achieving statehood in 1861.
Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory
was proclaimed August 25, 1855 but never organized; it reverted to unorganized territory when Kansas
joined the Union
on January 29, 1861. On February 7, 1859, several counties were split from Arapahoe County; none of them were organized, and also reverted to unorganized territory when Kansas became a state. They were:
Peketon County, Kansas Territory
was created on the same day in 1859, but never organized. Like Arapahoe and its daughter counties, it reverted to unorganized territory upon Kansas achieving statehood.
It was never recognized by Federal authorities, but the provisional government of the Territory of Jefferson held effective control of what became Colorado for a year and a half. Although the act establishing the Colorado Territory
became law on February 28, 1861, the first Federal governor, William Gilpin
, did not arrive in Denver until late May, and the Jefferson government disbanded itself on June 6, 1861. In November 1861, Colorado's territorial legislature would establish counties of its own, with many boundaries following those of the Jefferson counties.
Connecticut
Georgetown City and Washington City are former county-equivalents. The District of Columbia comprised three county-equivalents when it was consolidated in 1871: Georgetown City, Washington City, and the Remainder of the District—as they are termed in the Ninth Census of the United States (1870). There had been four county-equivalents in the District prior to the retrocession of Alexandria to Virginia
in 1846. In its retrospective decennial population counts the Ninth Census lists four for 1840 back to 1810, Alexandria and Washington counties alone for 1800, and none for 1790 prior to the creation of the district.
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
was created in 1809, it was part of the Northwest Territory
from 1788 to 1800, and Indiana Territory
from 1800 to 1809. At first, two counties of the Northwest Territory
were created to govern what became the modern state of Illinois, followed by two others:
Before Illinois achieved statehood in 1818, the part of Illinois Territory excluded from the new state (Wisconsin
, eastern Minnesota
, and the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan) was transferred to Michigan Territory. No county governments were included in this transfer.
was created in 1800, and had since 1788 been part of the Northwest Territory
; the new territory included modern-day Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota, as well at the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. At first, one county of the Northwest Territory
had been created to govern what became the modern state of Indiana, and three others would be included in the Indiana Territory:
Kentucky
Because Kentucky began as a political dependency of Virginia, its earliest counties were organized by that government.
See also Virginia & Virginia Colony, below
Between 1784 and 1788, six more counties would be created in Kentucky by the Virginia authorities:
These nine counties gained statehood in 1792 as the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Louisiana
The Territory of Orleans was divided into 12 counties on 10 Apr 1805; these were later re-organized into parishes on 31 Mar 1807:
Maine
, which became a state
in 1820:
See also Massachusetts, below.
Maryland
, which became a state
in 1820:
Other counties organized by the Illinois Territory between 1809 and 1819, including Madison
, Crawford, Bond
, and Edwards
, notionally included parts of the future Michigan and Wisconsin territories in their boundaries, but do not appear to have exercised jurisdiction north of the current state line.
, William Hull
, declared a county government into existence shortly after assuming power in 1805, but on the same day, ordered that four districts be organized:
Judicial acts and militia organization took place at the district level; the vestigial county government was never organized. District government lapsed after the British occupation of Detroit and Mackinac in 1812; following the recapture of Detroit in 1813, Hull's replacement as governor (by American reckoning), Lewis Cass
, abolished the district scheme. In 1815, the current Wayne County
was organized; the county government traces its lineage to the 1796 county of that name.
Minnesota
Mississippi
Three Alabama counties were established in the Mississippi Territory that preceded the two states: Baldwin County, Alabama
; Madison County, Alabama
; Washington County, Alabama
.
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico Territory
New York
), was transferred to Federal jurisdiction in 1790 and formed into the Territory South of the River Ohio. The so-called Southwest Territory would achieve statehood in 1796, as Tennessee
.
North Dakota
Ohio
Choctaw Nation
Oklahoma Territory
Oregon
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
See also Lost counties, cities and towns of Virginia.
This list includes (but is not limited to) counties that were renamed but retained their territorial integrity, or counties that were transferred wholesale to another state when it was separated from another state (Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
counties transferred to Maine
Maine
Maine is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Quebec to the northwest and New Brunswick to the northeast. Maine is both the northernmost and easternmost...
; Virginia
Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
counties transferred to West Virginia
West Virginia
West Virginia is a state in the Appalachian and Southeastern regions of the United States, bordered by Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, Ohio to the northwest, Pennsylvania to the northeast and Maryland to the east...
).
AlabamaAlabamaAlabama is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and Mississippi to the west. Alabama ranks 30th in total land area and ranks second in the size of its inland...
- Baine County, Alabama (1866–1867, re-established as Etowah County a year later)
- Baker County, Alabama (1868–1874, renamed Chilton CountyChilton County, Alabama-2010:Whereas according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau:*84.1% White*9.7% Black*0.4% Native American*0.3% Asian*0.0% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander*1.2% Two or more races*7.8% Hispanic or Latino -2000:...
) - Benton County, Alabama (named for COL T.H. Benton, Creek War officer and U.S. Senator, renamed Calhoun CountyCalhoun County, AlabamaCalhoun County is a county in the U.S. state of Alabama. Its name is in honor of John C. Calhoun, famous member of the United States Senate from South Carolina. As of 2010 the population was 118,572. It is included in the Anniston-Oxford Metropolitan Statistical Area...
in 1858 for John C. CalhounJohn C. CalhounJohn Caldwell Calhoun was a leading politician and political theorist from South Carolina during the first half of the 19th century. Calhoun eloquently spoke out on every issue of his day, but often changed positions. Calhoun began his political career as a nationalist, modernizer, and proponent...
) - Cahawba County, Alabama (1818–1820, renamed Bibb CountyBibb County, AlabamaBibb County is a county in the U.S. state of Alabama. Its name is in honor of William W. Bibb, the first Governor of Alabama. As of 2010 the population was 22,915. The county seat is Centreville...
) - Cotaco County, Alabama (1818–1821, renamed Morgan CountyMorgan County, AlabamaMorgan County is the most populous county in the Decatur Metropolitan Area, and the second most populous county in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area in the U.S. State of Alabama. It was created by the Alabama Territorial legislature on February 6, 1818 from land acquired from the...
) - Decatur County, AlabamaDecatur County, AlabamaDecatur County, Alabama is a former county of the state of Alabama, United States. It was named is for Commodore Stephen Decatur of the United States Navy. Its county seat was Woodville.-History:...
(1821-~1825, land redistributed between MadisonMadison County, AlabamaMadison County is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama, and is a major part of the Huntsville Metropolitan Area.It is also included in the merged Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. The county is named in honor of James Madison, fourth President of the United States of America, and the...
and JacksonJackson County, AlabamaJackson County is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama. Its name is in honor of Andrew Jackson, general in the United States Army and President of the United States of America. As of 2010, the population was 53,227. The county seat is Scottsboro. Jackson County is a prohibition or dry county,...
counties) - Jones County, Alabama (Feb 1867-Nov 1867, area was re-established in Oct 1868 as Sanford County and then renamed Lamar CountyLamar County, AlabamaLamar County is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama. Its name is in honor of Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar, member of the United States Senate from Mississippi. As of 2010 the population was 14,564...
in 1877) - Jones County, Alabama (Aug 1868-Oct 1868, Covington CountyCovington County, AlabamaCovington County, Alabama, is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama. Its name is in honor of Brigadier General Leonard Covington of Maryland. As of 2010 the population was 37,765...
was briefly renamed Jones County then changed back)
AlaskaAlaskaAlaska is the largest state in the United States by area. It is situated in the northwest extremity of the North American continent, with Canada to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the west and south, with Russia further west across the Bering Strait...
The State of Alaska has never created any countiesCounty (United States)
In the United States, a county is a geographic subdivision of a state , usually assigned some governmental authority. The term "county" is used in 48 of the 50 states; Louisiana is divided into parishes and Alaska into boroughs. Parishes and boroughs are called "county-equivalents" by the U.S...
, although the state has organized 18 boroughs and the United States Census Bureau
United States Census Bureau
The United States Census Bureau is the government agency that is responsible for the United States Census. It also gathers other national demographic and economic data...
has divided the rest of the state, known as the Unorganized Borough
Unorganized Borough
The Unorganized Borough is the part of the U.S. state of Alaska not contained in any of its 18 organized boroughs. It encompasses more than half of Alaska's area, , an area larger than any other US state...
, into 11 census areas.
ArizonaArizonaArizona ; is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is also part of the western United States and the mountain west. The capital and largest city is Phoenix...
- Pah-Ute County, ArizonaPah-Ute County, ArizonaPah-Ute County is a former county in the northwest corner of Arizona Territory that existed from 1865 until 1871. The majority of the county's territory is now in Clark County, Nevada, including the city of Las Vegas. Due to the transfer of most of the county's land to Nevada, Pah-Ute is known as...
(1865–1871) majority of the county transferred to NevadaNevadaNevada is a state in the western, mountain west, and southwestern regions of the United States. With an area of and a population of about 2.7 million, it is the 7th-largest and 35th-most populous state. Over two-thirds of Nevada's people live in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, which contains its...
in 1866, the remainder transferred to Mohave CountyMohave County, ArizonaMohave County is located in the northwestern corner of the U.S. state of Arizona. As of the 2010 census, its population was 200,186, an increase of 45,154 people since the 2000 census count of 155,032. The county seat is Kingman...
ArkansasArkansasArkansas is a state located in the southern region of the United States. Its name is an Algonquian name of the Quapaw Indians. Arkansas shares borders with six states , and its eastern border is largely defined by the Mississippi River...
- Lovely County, Arkansas (1827–1828) most of the county was lost to OklahomaOklahomaOklahoma is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. With an estimated 3,751,351 residents as of the 2010 census and a land area of 68,667 square miles , Oklahoma is the 28th most populous and 20th-largest state...
due to the Cherokee Treaty of 1828, the remainder became Washington CountyWashington County, ArkansasWashington County is a county located in the northwest part of the U.S. state of Arkansas. As of 2010, the population was 203,065. The county seat is Fayetteville. Washington County is Arkansas's 17th county, formed on October 17, 1828, and named for George Washington, the first President of the... - Miller County, Arkansas TerritoryMiller County, Arkansas TerritoryOld Miller County was created April 1, 1820 by the Arkansas Territorial Legislature. It included much of what is southeastern Oklahoma and the northeastern counties in Texas .The Act delineated Miller County as follows:The 1820 territorial census listed 999 residents in Miller County, 82 of them...
(1820–1825, became part of Indian TerritoryIndian TerritoryThe Indian Territory, also known as the Indian Territories and the Indian Country, was land set aside within the United States for the settlement of American Indians...
and present-day TexasTexasTexas is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state by area in the contiguous United States.The name, based on the Caddo word "Tejas" meaning "friends" or "allies", was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in...
)
CaliforniaCaliforniaCalifornia is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
- Klamath County, CaliforniaKlamath County, CaliforniaKlamath County was a county of California from 1851 to 1874. During its existence, the county seat moved twice and several counties were carved from its territory...
- created in 1851 from the northern half of Trinity CountyTrinity County, CaliforniaTrinity County is a large, rugged and mountainous, heavily forested county located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of California, along the Trinity River and within the Salmon/Klamath Mountains. It covers an area of over two million acres , and as of the 2010 census its population...
, but in 1874 it was divided between HumboldtHumboldt County, CaliforniaHumboldt County is a county in the U.S. state of California, located on the far North Coast 200 miles north of San Francisco. According to 2010 Census Data, the county’s population was 134,623...
and SiskiyouSiskiyou County, CaliforniaSiskiyou County is a county located in the far northernmost part of the U.S. state of California, in the Shasta Cascade region on the Oregon border. Yreka is the county seat. Because of its substantial natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and Gold Rush era history, it is an important...
counties. - Pautah County, California - created by the CaliforniaCaliforniaCalifornia is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
legislature out of territory the state believed would be ceded to it north of Lake TahoeLake TahoeLake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada of the United States. At a surface elevation of , it is located along the border between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Its depth is , making it the USA's second-deepest...
, but which was given to NevadaNevadaNevada is a state in the western, mountain west, and southwestern regions of the United States. With an area of and a population of about 2.7 million, it is the 7th-largest and 35th-most populous state. Over two-thirds of Nevada's people live in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, which contains its...
. The county was never officially organized.
ColoradoColoradoColorado is a U.S. state that encompasses much of the Rocky Mountains as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains...
Colorado Territory was formed from the lands of four organized territories: Kansas to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and Nebraska to the northeast. Before Colorado Territory was organized, all of these except Nebraska had declared county boundaries that included part of modern-day Colorado.Counties formed by New Mexico Territory
- Taos County, New Mexico Territory was originally one of the seven partidos of the Spanish, and later Mexican, province of Nuevo MéxicoNuevo México-In Mexico:*Nuevo México, Chiapas*Nuevo México, Jalisco*Santa Fe de Nuevo México ; the province or kingdom of which Santa Fe was the capital....
. One of the nine original counties created by the U.S. Territory of New Mexico on January 29, 1852; ceased to have jurisdiction over Colorado in 1861. - Mora County, New Mexico Territory was split from Taos County and San Miguel County on February 1, 1860, and ceased to have jurisdiction over Colorado in 1861.
Counties formed by Utah Territory
On March 3, 1852, the following counties were organized by Utah Territory, with boundaries reaching into what is now western Colorado:- Great Salt Lake County, Utah Territory
- Iron County, Utah Territory
- Sanpete County, Utah Territory
- Utah County, Utah Territory
- Washington County, Utah Territory
Upon the organization of Colorado Territory in 1861, which became law on February 28, these counties ceased to have jurisdiction in Colorado.
Green River County, Utah Territory was also created on March 3, 1852, but never organized; it was dissolved in 1857 and recreated in 1859. After losing land to Colorado Territory
Colorado Territory
The Territory of Colorado was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from February 28, 1861, until August 1, 1876, when it was admitted to the Union as the State of Colorado....
in 1861 and Wyoming Territory
Wyoming Territory
The Territory of Wyoming was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 25, 1868, until July 10, 1890, when it was admitted to the Union as the State of Wyoming. Cheyenne was the territorial capital...
in 1868, Green River County was finally dissolved in 1872.
Beaver County, Utah Territory was formed on January 5, 1856 from parts of Iron and Millard counties, and like other Utah counties, ceased to have jurisdiction in Colorado.
Counties created by Kansas Territory
Kansas Territory's western reaches encompassed the mining centers of Aurora and Pike's Peak. Beginning with the massive Arapahoe CountyArapahoe County, Kansas Territory
Arapahoe County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed from 1855-08-25, to 1861-01-29.-History:On 1855-08-25, the Kansas Territorial Legislature created Arapahoe County to govern the western portion of the Territory of Kansas...
, Kansas Territory provided for a number of counties in what would become Colorado, but organized none of them before achieving statehood in 1861.
Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory
Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory
Arapahoe County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed from 1855-08-25, to 1861-01-29.-History:On 1855-08-25, the Kansas Territorial Legislature created Arapahoe County to govern the western portion of the Territory of Kansas...
was proclaimed August 25, 1855 but never organized; it reverted to unorganized territory when Kansas
Kansas
Kansas is a US state located in the Midwestern United States. It is named after the Kansas River which flows through it, which in turn was named after the Kansa Native American tribe, which inhabited the area. The tribe's name is often said to mean "people of the wind" or "people of the south...
joined the Union
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
on January 29, 1861. On February 7, 1859, several counties were split from Arapahoe County; none of them were organized, and also reverted to unorganized territory when Kansas became a state. They were:
- Broderick County, Kansas TerritoryBroderick County, Kansas TerritoryBroderick County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from February 7, 1859 to January 29, 1861.-History:...
- El Paso County, Kansas TerritoryEl Paso County, Kansas TerritoryEl Paso County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Fremont County, Kansas TerritoryFremont County, Kansas TerritoryFremont County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Montana County, Kansas TerritoryMontana County, Kansas TerritoryMontana County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Oro County, Kansas TerritoryOro County, Kansas TerritoryOro County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
Peketon County, Kansas Territory
Peketon County, Kansas Territory
Peketon County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
was created on the same day in 1859, but never organized. Like Arapahoe and its daughter counties, it reverted to unorganized territory upon Kansas achieving statehood.
Note on Nebraska Territory
No counties were organized in Nebraska Territory's portion of the future Colorado Territory.Counties created by the Provisional Territory of Jefferson
On November 28, 1859, the Provisional General Assembly of the extralegal Territory of Jefferson proclaimed the boundaries of 12 counties:- Arrappahoe County, Jefferson TerritoryArrappahoe County, Jefferson TerritoryArrappahoe County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861. The county name was also spelled Arapaho County, Arapahoe County, Arrapahoe County, and Arappahoe County.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered...
- Cheyenne County, Jefferson TerritoryCheyenne County, Jefferson TerritoryCheyenne County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- El Paso County, Jefferson TerritoryEl Paso County, Jefferson TerritoryEl Paso County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- Fountain County, Jefferson TerritoryFountain County, Jefferson TerritoryFountain County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- Heele County, Jefferson TerritoryHeele County, Jefferson TerritoryHeele County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861. It may also have been known as Steele County.-History:...
- Jackson County, Jefferson TerritoryJackson County, Jefferson TerritoryJackson County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- Jefferson County, Jefferson TerritoryJefferson County, Jefferson TerritoryJefferson County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861. Its territory covered a broad swath surrounding the region of the Pike's Peak Gold Rush, and was a functioning democratically elected government until...
- Montana County, Jefferson TerritoryMontana County, Jefferson TerritoryMountain County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- North County, Jefferson TerritoryNorth County, Jefferson TerritoryNorth County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- Park County, Jefferson TerritoryPark County, Jefferson TerritoryPark County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- Saratoga County, Jefferson TerritorySaratoga County, Jefferson TerritorySaratoga County was a county of the extralegal United States Territory of Jefferson that existed from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.-History:...
- St. Vrains County, Jefferson Territory
It was never recognized by Federal authorities, but the provisional government of the Territory of Jefferson held effective control of what became Colorado for a year and a half. Although the act establishing the Colorado Territory
Colorado Territory
The Territory of Colorado was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from February 28, 1861, until August 1, 1876, when it was admitted to the Union as the State of Colorado....
became law on February 28, 1861, the first Federal governor, William Gilpin
William Gilpin
William Gilpin may refer to:* William Gilpin , bishop of Kingston in the Church of England* William Gilpin , first governor of the Colorado Territory* William Gilpin , English watercolour artist, writer and clergyman...
, did not arrive in Denver until late May, and the Jefferson government disbanded itself on June 6, 1861. In November 1861, Colorado's territorial legislature would establish counties of its own, with many boundaries following those of the Jefferson counties.
Counties created by Colorado Territory
- Guadalupe County, Colorado TerritoryGuadalupe County, Colorado TerritoryGuadalupe County was one of the original 17 counties created by the Territory of Colorado in 1861. Guadalupe County existed for only six days before being renamed Conejos County.-History:...
(November 1–7, 1861), was one of the 17 original counties created by the Territory of Colorado. The county was renamed Conejos County after only six days. - Greenwood County, Colorado TerritoryGreenwood County, Colorado TerritoryGreenwood County was a county of the Territory of Colorado that existed for four years from 1870 to 1874.-History:On November 2, 1870, the Colorado General Assembly created Greenwood County from former Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal land and the eastern portion of Huerfano County...
(February 11, 1870 to February 6, 1874), was created from former Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal land and the eastern portion of Huerfano County. The county was abolished four years later, and its territory split between Elbert County and Bent County. - Platte County, Colorado TerritoryPlatte County, Colorado TerritoryPlatte County was an unorganized county of the Territory of Colorado that existed for two years from 1872 to 1874. Platte County was created from, and reverted to, Weld County, Colorado.-History:...
(February 9, 1872 to February 9, 1874), was created from the eastern portion of Weld County. The county was abolished two years later after organizers failed to secure voter approval, and the territory of the county was returned to Weld County.
Counties created by the State of Colorado
- Carbonate County, ColoradoCarbonate County, ColoradoCarbonate County was a county of the state of Colorado that existed for only two days in 1879. Carbonate County was created by renaming Lake County, Colorado.-History:On 8 February 1879, the Colorado General Assembly renamed Lake County as Carbonate County...
(February 8–10, 1879). Lake County was renamed Carbonate County in 1879. Only two days later, Carbonate County was split into the new Chaffee County and the re-renamed Lake County. - Uncompaghre County, ColoradoUncompaghre County, ColoradoUncompaghre County was a county of the State of Colorado that existed for only four days. Uncompaghre County was created by a temporary renaming of Ouray County in 1883.-History:...
(February 27 to March 2, 1883). Ouray County was renamed Uncompaghre County for only four days in 1883. - South Arapahoe County, ColoradoSouth Arapahoe County, ColoradoSouth Arapahoe County was a county of the State of Colorado that existed for five months until it was renamed Arapahoe County in 1902.-History:...
(November 15, 1902 to April 11, 1903), was one of three counties created from Arapahoe County in 1902. The name was changed back to Arapahoe County after five months.
ConnecticutConnecticutConnecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west and the south .Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately...
- Westmoreland County, ConnecticutWestmoreland County, ConnecticutWestmoreland County, Connecticut was a county established by the State of Connecticut in the present day area of Wyoming Valley, Pennsylvania, until it was ceded to Pennsylvania in 1784, of which it now forms the northeastern corner. It briefly seceded to become the State of Westmoreland...
(see Yankee-Pennamite Wars and State of WestmorelandState of WestmorelandThe State of Westmoreland was a proposed self-proclaimed state that would have seceded from Pennsylvania.Both Pennsylvania and Connecticut claimed ownership of the lands between 41° N and 42° N, and this gave rise to a series of land-conflicts collectively referred to as the Yankee-Pennamite Wars...
)
District of Columbia
- Alexandria County, D.C.Alexandria County, D.C.Alexandria County was part of the original 100-mile square created as the District of Columbia in 1791 pursuant to Article I, Section 8, paragraph 17, of the United States Constitution...
(1791–1846) retroceded to VirginiaVirginiaThe Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
becoming Alexandria County, Virginia. - Washington County, D.C. Abolished in 1871 and consolidated with the District of Columbia. Under the current (2001, revised through 2005) District of Columbia Code, the entire District of Columbia is a single body corporate for municipal purposes; the code does not mention Washington County except to make the District of Columbia the successor in title to its property.
Georgetown City and Washington City are former county-equivalents. The District of Columbia comprised three county-equivalents when it was consolidated in 1871: Georgetown City, Washington City, and the Remainder of the District—as they are termed in the Ninth Census of the United States (1870). There had been four county-equivalents in the District prior to the retrocession of Alexandria to Virginia
Retrocession (District of Columbia)
District of Columbia retrocession is the process of returning the land that was given to the federal government for the original purpose of creating the national capital. The District of Columbia was formed in 1791 from of land ceded by the states of Maryland and Virginia in accordance with the...
in 1846. In its retrospective decennial population counts the Ninth Census lists four for 1840 back to 1810, Alexandria and Washington counties alone for 1800, and none for 1790 prior to the creation of the district.
FloridaFloridaFlorida is a state in the southeastern United States, located on the nation's Atlantic and Gulf coasts. It is bordered to the west by the Gulf of Mexico, to the north by Alabama and Georgia and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of 18,801,310 as measured by the 2010 census, it...
- Benton County, Florida, named for Missouri Senator Thomas Hart BentonThomas Hart Benton (senator)Thomas Hart Benton , nicknamed "Old Bullion", was a U.S. Senator from Missouri and a staunch advocate of westward expansion of the United States. He served in the Senate from 1821 to 1851, becoming the first member of that body to serve five terms...
in 1844, renamed Hernando CountyHernando County, FloridaHernando County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida. As of 2000, the population was 130,802. The U.S. Census Bureau 2006 estimate for the county is 165,409 . Its county seat is Brooksville, Florida. The majority of the county's population is in Spring Hill, west portion of Hernando...
in 1850 - Fayette County, Florida became parts of JacksonJackson County, FloridaJackson County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida. The population as of the 2000 census was 46,755. As of 2005, the population was estimated to be 48,985 . Its county seat is Marianna, Florida.- History :...
, CalhounCalhoun County, FloridaCalhoun County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida. As of 2000, the population was 13,017. The U.S. Census Bureau 2006 estimate for the county was 13,410 . Its county seat is Blountstown, Florida.- History :...
and GulfGulf County, FloridaGulf County is a county located in the panhandle of the U.S. state of Florida. As of 2000, the population was 13,332. The U.S. Census Bureau 2005 estimate for the county is 13,975 . Its county seat is Port St. Joe.- History :...
counties in 1833 - Mosquito County, Florida Renamed Orange County, FloridaOrange County, FloridaOrange County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida and is part of the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford Metropolitan Statistical Area . As of 2010 U.S. Census, the county had a population of 1,145,956....
in 1845. - New River County, Florida Renamed Bradford County, FloridaBradford County, FloridaBradford County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida. As of 2000, the population was 26,088. The 2005 U.S. Census Bureau estimate for the county was 28,118 . Its county seat is Starke, Florida. Bradford County is the home of the Florida State Prison as well as several other state...
in 1861.
GeorgiaGeorgia (U.S. state)Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1732, the last of the original Thirteen Colonies. The state is named after King George II of Great Britain. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution, on January 2, 1788...
- Bourbon County, Georgia (organized by GeorgiaGeorgia (U.S. state)Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1732, the last of the original Thirteen Colonies. The state is named after King George II of Great Britain. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution, on January 2, 1788...
in 1785 out of disputed Yazoo landsYazoo landsThe Yazoo lands were the sparsely-populated central and western areas of the U.S. state of Georgia, when its western border stretched back to the Mississippi River. It was named for the Yazoo tribe of Native Americans. Several other places and things were named Yazoo, either for or along with the...
in present day MississippiMississippiMississippi is a U.S. state located in the Southern United States. Jackson is the state capital and largest city. The name of the state derives from the Mississippi River, which flows along its western boundary, whose name comes from the Ojibwe word misi-ziibi...
; dissolved in 1788) - Campbell County, GeorgiaCampbell County, GeorgiaCampbell County, Georgia was a county of the U.S. state of Georgia from 1828 to 1931. It was created by the state legislature on December 20, 1828 from land taken from Fayette, Coweta, and Carroll counties, and from the half of DeKalb County which became Fulton County soon afterward. Georgia's...
(1828–1931); merged with Fulton CountyFulton County, GeorgiaFulton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Georgia. Its county seat is Atlanta, the state capital since 1868 and the principal county of the Atlanta metropolitan area... - Cass County, Georgia (1832–1861); renamed Bartow CountyBartow County, GeorgiaBartow County is a county located in the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2010 census, the population was 100,157. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's July 1, 2009 estimate, the county's explosive growth resulted in a population of 96,217, a 26.5% increase in less than ten years...
- Kinchafoonee County, Georgia (1853–1856); renamed Webster CountyWebster County, GeorgiaWebster County is a county located in the U.S. state of Georgia. The 2000 Census reflected a population of 2,390. The 2009 Census Estimate shows a population of 2,192. The county seat is Preston.-History:...
- Milton County, GeorgiaMilton County, GeorgiaMilton County was a county of the U.S. state of Georgia from 1857 to 1931. It was created on December 18, 1857 from parts of northeastern Cobb, southeastern Cherokee, and southwestern Forsyth counties. The county was named for John Milton, Secretary of State of Georgia from 1777 to 1799...
(1857–1931); merged with Fulton CountyFulton County, GeorgiaFulton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Georgia. Its county seat is Atlanta, the state capital since 1868 and the principal county of the Atlanta metropolitan area...
IdahoIdahoIdaho is a state in the Rocky Mountain area of the United States. The state's largest city and capital is Boise. Residents are called "Idahoans". Idaho was admitted to the Union on July 3, 1890, as the 43rd state....
- Alturas County, IdahoAlturas County, IdahoAlturas County was a county in Idaho Territory and later the state of Idaho from 1864 to 1895. It covered an area larger than the states of Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware combined. Most present-day southern Idaho counties were created at least in part from the original Alturas County area...
(1864–1895) split into Elmore CountyElmore County, IdahoElmore County is a county located in the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2010 Census the county had a population of 27,038, down 7.2% from 29,130 in 2000. The largest city and county seat is Mountain Home....
and Logan CountyLogan County, IdahoLogan County was a county in Idaho Territory and later the state of Idaho from 1889 to 1895.Logan County was created from parts of Alturas County by the Idaho Territorial Legislature in 1889 with Bellevue as its county seat. Six years later, the Idaho Legislature attempted to return Bellevue to... - Lah-Toh County, Idaho TerritoryLah-Toh County, Idaho TerritoryLah-Toh County was a county in Idaho Territory from 1864 to 1867.Lah-Toh County was created by the Idaho Territorial Legislature in 1864 with Coeur d'Alene as its county seat. The name is Nez Perce for "the place of pine trees and sestle". The county was abolished in 1867, although sources disagree...
(1864–1867) absorbed by Kootenai CountyKootenai County, IdahoKootenai County is a county located in the U.S. state of Idaho. The county was established in 1864, named after Kootenai tribe. The entire county comprises the Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 138,494 at the 2010 census... - Logan County, IdahoLogan County, IdahoLogan County was a county in Idaho Territory and later the state of Idaho from 1889 to 1895.Logan County was created from parts of Alturas County by the Idaho Territorial Legislature in 1889 with Bellevue as its county seat. Six years later, the Idaho Legislature attempted to return Bellevue to...
(1889–1895) the Idaho Legislature combined LoganLogan County, IdahoLogan County was a county in Idaho Territory and later the state of Idaho from 1889 to 1895.Logan County was created from parts of Alturas County by the Idaho Territorial Legislature in 1889 with Bellevue as its county seat. Six years later, the Idaho Legislature attempted to return Bellevue to...
and AlturasAlturas County, IdahoAlturas County was a county in Idaho Territory and later the state of Idaho from 1864 to 1895. It covered an area larger than the states of Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware combined. Most present-day southern Idaho counties were created at least in part from the original Alturas County area...
Counties into a new county called BlaineBlaine County, IdahoBlaine County is a county located in the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2010 Census the county had a population of 21,376. The county seat and largest city is Hailey. The county is home to the Sun Valley ski resort....
Revolutionary era
- Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed in 1778 to govern Virginia's claims to present-day IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
and eastern MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
; county abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784. Its effective reach was limited to the French settlements at CahokiaCahokia, IllinoisCahokia is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2000 census, the village had a population of 16,391. The name is a reference to one of the clans of the historic Illini confederacy, who were encountered by early French explorers to the region.Early European settlers also...
, KaskaskiaKaskaskia, IllinoisKaskaskia is a village in Randolph County, Illinois, United States. In the 2010 census the population was 14, making it the second-smallest incorporated community in the State of Illinois in terms of population. A major French colonial town of the Illinois Country, its peak population was about...
, and VincennesVincennes, IndianaVincennes is a city in and the county seat of Knox County, Indiana, United States. It is located on the Wabash River in the southwestern part of the state. The population was 18,701 at the 2000 census...
.
Former counties of the Northwest and Indiana territories
Before Illinois TerritoryIllinois Territory
The Territory of Illinois was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from March 1, 1809, until December 3, 1818, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Illinois. The area was earlier known as "Illinois Country" while under...
was created in 1809, it was part of the Northwest Territory
Northwest Territory
The Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, more commonly known as the Northwest Territory, was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 13, 1787, until March 1, 1803, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Ohio...
from 1788 to 1800, and Indiana Territory
Indiana Territory
The Territory of Indiana was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 4, 1800, until November 7, 1816, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Indiana....
from 1800 to 1809. At first, two counties of the Northwest Territory
Northwest Territory
The Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, more commonly known as the Northwest Territory, was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 13, 1787, until March 1, 1803, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Ohio...
were created to govern what became the modern state of Illinois, followed by two others:
- St. Clair County, Northwest Territory established April 27, 1790, later St. Clair County, Indiana Territory; upon the organization of Indiana Territory in 1800, St. Clair County was enlarged to take in present-day Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota, and the western portion of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. When Illinois TerritoryIllinois TerritoryThe Territory of Illinois was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from March 1, 1809, until December 3, 1818, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Illinois. The area was earlier known as "Illinois Country" while under...
was set off from the Indiana Territory in 1809, St. Clair CountySt. Clair County, IllinoisSt. Clair County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. In 1970, the U.S. Census Bureau placed the mean center of U.S. population in St. Clair County. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 270,056, which is an increase of 5.5% from 256,082 in 2000. Its county seat is...
was included in the new government. - Knox County, Northwest Territory, established June 20, 1790, later Knox County, Indiana TerritoryKnox County, IndianaAs of the census of 2000, there were 39,256 people, 15,552 households, and 10,139 families residing in the county. The population density was 76 people per square mile . There were 17,305 housing units at an average density of 34 per square mile...
, 1800; its boundaries in 1795 included the eastern half of the future state of Illinois. Portions of Knox County would be transferred to Michigan TerritoryMichigan TerritoryThe Territory of Michigan was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from June 30, 1805, until January 26, 1837, when the final extent of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Michigan...
upon its organization in 1805 and to Illinois Territory upon its organization in 1809; the remainder was included in the state of Indiana upon its achieving statehood in 1816. - Randolph County, Northwest Territory, proclaimed 1795, from part of St. Clair County; transferred to Indiana Territory in 1800 and Illinois Territory in 1809, now Randolph County, IllinoisRandolph County, IllinoisRandolph County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 33,476, which is a decrease of 1.2% from 33,893 in 2000. Its county seat is Chester....
. - Wayne County, Northwest Territory, proclaimed on August 15, 1796 following the British evacuation of Detroit; out of portions of Hamilton County, Northwest Territory and unorganized land, mostly in the present-day Lower Peninsula of Michigan. This first Wayne County originally included a slice of the present Lake Michigan shoreline of IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, the site of present-day ChicagoChicagoChicago is the largest city in the US state of Illinois. With nearly 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous in the US, after New York City and Los Angeles...
; its lands would be transferred to Knox County, Indiana Territory and later, the Illinois Territory. Transferred to Indiana Territory in 1803 and to Michigan Territory in 1805.
Counties organized by Illinois Territory
Other counties were organized by the Illinois Territory from the lands of St. Clair County between 1812 and 1819 and notionally included parts of the future Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin territories in their boundaries:- Madison County, Illinois TerritoryMadison County, IllinoisMadison County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. Madison County is part of the Metro-East region of the St. Louis Metro Area. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 269,282, which is an increase of 4.0% from 258,941 in 2000. The county seat is Edwardsville, home to...
, 1813, from St. Clair - Edwards County, Illinois TerritoryEdwards County, IllinoisEdwards County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 6,721, which is a decrease of 3.6% from 6,971 in 2000...
, 1815, from Madison - Crawford County, Illinois Territory, 1816, from Edwards
- Bond County, Illinois TerritoryBond County, IllinoisBond County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is part of the St. Louis Metro Area. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 17,768, which is an increase of 0.8% from 17,633 in 2000. Its county seat is Greenville, Illinois....
, 1817, from Madison
Before Illinois achieved statehood in 1818, the part of Illinois Territory excluded from the new state (Wisconsin
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
, eastern Minnesota
Minnesota
Minnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
, and the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan) was transferred to Michigan Territory. No county governments were included in this transfer.
Revolutionary era
- Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed in 1778 to govern Virginia's claims to present-day IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
and eastern MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
; county abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784. Its effective reach was limited to the French settlements at CahokiaCahokia, IllinoisCahokia is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2000 census, the village had a population of 16,391. The name is a reference to one of the clans of the historic Illini confederacy, who were encountered by early French explorers to the region.Early European settlers also...
, KaskaskiaKaskaskia, IllinoisKaskaskia is a village in Randolph County, Illinois, United States. In the 2010 census the population was 14, making it the second-smallest incorporated community in the State of Illinois in terms of population. A major French colonial town of the Illinois Country, its peak population was about...
, and VincennesVincennes, IndianaVincennes is a city in and the county seat of Knox County, Indiana, United States. It is located on the Wabash River in the southwestern part of the state. The population was 18,701 at the 2000 census...
.
Former counties of the Northwest and Indiana territories
Indiana TerritoryIndiana Territory
The Territory of Indiana was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 4, 1800, until November 7, 1816, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Indiana....
was created in 1800, and had since 1788 been part of the Northwest Territory
Northwest Territory
The Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, more commonly known as the Northwest Territory, was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 13, 1787, until March 1, 1803, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Ohio...
; the new territory included modern-day Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota, as well at the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. At first, one county of the Northwest Territory
Northwest Territory
The Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, more commonly known as the Northwest Territory, was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 13, 1787, until March 1, 1803, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Ohio...
had been created to govern what became the modern state of Indiana, and three others would be included in the Indiana Territory:
- Knox County, Northwest Territory, established June 20, 1790, later Knox County, Indiana TerritoryKnox County, IndianaAs of the census of 2000, there were 39,256 people, 15,552 households, and 10,139 families residing in the county. The population density was 76 people per square mile . There were 17,305 housing units at an average density of 34 per square mile...
, 1800; its boundaries in 1795 included the eastern half of the future state of Illinois, and its 1800 boundaries included the western half of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The northern portions of Knox County would be transferred to Michigan TerritoryMichigan TerritoryThe Territory of Michigan was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from June 30, 1805, until January 26, 1837, when the final extent of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Michigan...
upon its organization in 1805, and the westernmost to Illinois Territory upon its organization in 1809; the remainder was included in the state of Indiana upon its achieving statehood in 1816. - St. Clair County, Northwest Territory established April 27, 1790, later St. Clair County, Indiana Territory; upon the organization of Indiana Territory in 1800, St. Clair County was included in the new territory and enlarged to take in present-day Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota, and the western portion of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. When Illinois TerritoryIllinois TerritoryThe Territory of Illinois was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from March 1, 1809, until December 3, 1818, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Illinois. The area was earlier known as "Illinois Country" while under...
was set off from the Indiana Territory in 1809, St. Clair CountySt. Clair County, IllinoisSt. Clair County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. In 1970, the U.S. Census Bureau placed the mean center of U.S. population in St. Clair County. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 270,056, which is an increase of 5.5% from 256,082 in 2000. Its county seat is...
was included in the new government. - Randolph County, Northwest Territory, proclaimed 1795, from part of St. Clair County; transferred to Indiana Territory in 1800 and Illinois Territory in 1809, now Randolph County, IllinoisRandolph County, IllinoisRandolph County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 33,476, which is a decrease of 1.2% from 33,893 in 2000. Its county seat is Chester....
. - Wayne County, Northwest Territory, proclaimed on August 15, 1796 following the British evacuation of Detroit; out of portions of Hamilton County, Northwest Territory and unorganized land, mostly in the present-day Lower Peninsula of Michigan. This first Wayne County originally included a slice of northern Indiana; all of Wayne County west of the present Indiana-Ohio line was be transferred to Knox County, Indiana Territory in 1800. After losing other lands to the new state of Ohio, the remaining portion of Wayne County was transferred to Indiana Territory in 1803 and to Michigan Territory in 1805. The current Wayne County, MichiganWayne County, Michigan-History:Wayne County was one of the first counties formed when the Northwest Territory was organized. It was named for the American general "Mad Anthony" Wayne. It originally encompassed the entire area of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, as well as small sections that are now part of northern...
is considered a successor of the 1796 establishment.
Former districts of the Louisiana Territory
- District of LouisianaDistrict of LouisianaThe District of Louisiana, or Louisiana District, was an official, temporary, United States government designation for the portion of the Louisiana Purchase that had not been organized into the Orleans Territory. It officially existed from March 10, 1804 until July 4, 1805, when it was incorporated...
, attached to Indiana Territory October 1, 1804, pending the organization of Louisiana TerritoryLouisiana TerritoryThe Territory of Louisiana or Louisiana Territory was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 4, 1805 until June 4, 1812, when it was renamed to Missouri Territory...
, which took place July 4, 1805.
Former counties of the State of Indiana
- Richardville CountyHoward County, IndianaHoward County is one of 92 counties in the U.S. state of Indiana. It is part of the Kokomo, Indiana, Metropolitan Statistical Area, which consists of Howard and Tipton counties. Originally named Richardville County, it was rechristened in 1844 to commemorate General Tilghman Ashurst Howard. As of...
, name changed to Howard CountyHoward County, IndianaHoward County is one of 92 counties in the U.S. state of Indiana. It is part of the Kokomo, Indiana, Metropolitan Statistical Area, which consists of Howard and Tipton counties. Originally named Richardville County, it was rechristened in 1844 to commemorate General Tilghman Ashurst Howard. As of...
in 1859. - Newton County, IndianaNewton County, IndianaNewton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Indiana. As of 2010, the population was 14,244. The county seat is Kentland.- History :...
, Original Newton County abolished in 1839. Current County recreated in 1859 as the last county in Indiana.
Counties of Iowa created by Michigan Territory
- Des Moines County, Michigan Territory was organized in 1834, became part of Wisconsin TerritoryWisconsin TerritoryThe Territory of Wisconsin was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 3, 1836, until May 29, 1848, when an eastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Wisconsin...
in 1836, and is now Des Moines County, IowaDes Moines County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 40,325 in the county, with a population density of . There were 18,535 housing units, of which 17,003 were occupied.-2000 census:... - Dubuque County, Michigan Territory was organized in 1834, became part of Wisconsin TerritoryWisconsin TerritoryThe Territory of Wisconsin was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 3, 1836, until May 29, 1848, when an eastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Wisconsin...
in 1836, and is now Dubuque County, IowaDubuque County, IowaDubuque County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. The population was 93,653 in the 2010 census, an increase from 89,143 in the 2000 census. The county seat is the city of Dubuque. Dubuque County is coterminous with the Dubuque, Iowa Metropolitan Statistical Area, and is the seventh...
Counties of Iowa created by Wisconsin Territory
- Henry County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Henry County, IowaHenry County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,145 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,280 housing units, of which 7,666 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Lee County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Lee County, IowaLee County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 35,862 in the county, with a population density of . There were 16,205 housing units, of which 14,610 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Louisa County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Louisa County, IowaLouisa County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 11,387 in the county, with a population density of . There were 5,002 housing units, of which 4,346 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Muscatine County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Muscatine County, IowaMuscatine County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 42,745 in the county, with a population density of . There were 17,910 housing units, of which 16,412 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Van Buren County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Van Buren County, Iowa
- Henry County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Henry County, IowaHenry County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,145 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,280 housing units, of which 7,666 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Benton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Benton County, IowaBenton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 26,076 in the county, with a population density of . There were 11,095 housing units, of which 10,302 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Buchanan County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Buchanan County, IowaBuchanan County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,958 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,968 housing units, of which 8,161 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Cedar County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Cedar County, IowaCedar County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 13,956 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,064 housing units, of which 7,511 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Clayton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Clayton County, IowaClayton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 18,129 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,999 housing units, of which 7,599 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Clinton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Clinton County, IowaClinton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 49,116 in the county, with a population density of . There were 21,733 housing units, of which 20,223 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Delaware County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Delaware County, IowaDelaware County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 17,764 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,028 housing units, of which 7,062 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Fayette County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Fayette County, IowaFayette County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,880 in the county, with a population density of . There were 9,558 housing units, of which 8,634 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Jackson County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Jackson County, IowaJackson County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 19,848 in the county, with a population density of . There were 9,415 housing units, of which 8,289 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Johnson County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Johnson County, IowaJohnson County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 130,882 in the county, with a population density of . There were 55,967 housing units, of which 52,715 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Jones County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Jones County, IowaJones County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,638 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,911 housing units, of which 8,151 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Keokuk County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Keokuk County, IowaKeokuk County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 10,511 in the county, with a population density of . There were 4,931 housing units, of which 4,408 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Linn County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Linn County, IowaLinn County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 211,226 in the county, with a population density of . There were 92,251 housing units, of which 86,134 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Scott County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Scott County, IowaScott County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 165,224 in the county, with a population density of . There were 71,835 housing units, of which 66,765 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Slaughter County, Wisconsin Territory, 1838; see Washington County, Iowa
Former counties of the State of iowa
- Bancroft County, IowaBancroft County, IowaBancroft County, Iowa was a county located in what today is the northern portion of Kossuth County. The county was established in 1851 by the Iowa General Assembly, but then abolished six years later in 1857 and the area joined to Kossuth County....
was established in 1851. It was abolished in 1857 and the area was joined to Kossuth CountyKossuth County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 15,543 in the county, with a population density of . There were 7,486 housing units, of which 6,697 were occupied.-2000 census:...
. - Crocker County, IowaCrocker County, IowaCrocker County is a defunct county in the U.S. state of Iowa. In 1870, the Iowa General Assembly created Crocker County from the southern part of Kossuth County. The county seat was located at Greenwood, Iowa...
was created in 1870 out of Kossuth CountyKossuth County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 15,543 in the county, with a population density of . There were 7,486 housing units, of which 6,697 were occupied.-2000 census:...
from portions of what had been Bancroft CountyBancroft County, IowaBancroft County, Iowa was a county located in what today is the northern portion of Kossuth County. The county was established in 1851 by the Iowa General Assembly, but then abolished six years later in 1857 and the area joined to Kossuth County....
. It was merged back into Kossuth County in 1871. - Wahkaw County, Iowa was established on January 15, 1851; on January 12, 1853, its name was changed to Woodbury CountyWoodbury County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 102,172 in the county, with a population density of . There were 41,454 housing units, of which 39,052 were occupied.-2000 census:...
.
Counties created by Kansas Territory
Several counties were created by the government of Kansas Territory in its western reaches, which included the mining districts of Auraria and Pike's Peak. None were ever organized, and all reverted to unorganized territory when Kansas achieved statehood in 1861. See also the Colorado section, above.- Arapahoe County, Kansas TerritoryArapahoe County, Kansas TerritoryArapahoe County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed from 1855-08-25, to 1861-01-29.-History:On 1855-08-25, the Kansas Territorial Legislature created Arapahoe County to govern the western portion of the Territory of Kansas...
, covered all of western Kansas Territory when it was proclaimed on August 25, 1855. On February 7, 1859, the following counties were created from parts of Arapahoe County:- Broderick County, Kansas TerritoryBroderick County, Kansas TerritoryBroderick County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from February 7, 1859 to January 29, 1861.-History:...
- El Paso County, Kansas TerritoryEl Paso County, Kansas TerritoryEl Paso County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Fremont County, Kansas TerritoryFremont County, Kansas TerritoryFremont County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Montana County, Kansas TerritoryMontana County, Kansas TerritoryMontana County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Oro County, Kansas TerritoryOro County, Kansas TerritoryOro County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
- Broderick County, Kansas Territory
- Peketon County, Kansas TerritoryPeketon County, Kansas TerritoryPeketon County was a county of the United States Territory of Kansas that existed for two years from 1859-02-07, to 1861-01-29.-History:In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County of the Territory of Kansas . This discovery precipitating the Pike's Peak Gold Rush...
was created on the same day that these counties were split off from Arapaho; like them, it was never organized and reverted to unorganized territory in 1861.
Counties created by the State of Kansas
- Howard County, Kansas (1875)
- Otoe County, Kansas
KentuckyKentuckyThe Commonwealth of Kentucky is a state located in the East Central United States of America. As classified by the United States Census Bureau, Kentucky is a Southern state, more specifically in the East South Central region. Kentucky is one of four U.S. states constituted as a commonwealth...
Because Kentucky began as a political dependency of Virginia, its earliest counties were organized by that government.See also Virginia & Virginia Colony, below
Historic counties created by Virginia
- Fincastle County, VirginiaFincastle County, VirginiaFincastle County, Virginia, was created in 1772 from Botetourt County, the boundaries of which extended all the way to the Mississippi River. Fincastle County was abolished in 1776, and divided into three new counties—Montgomery County, Washington County, and Kentucky County .Although no county...
, proclaimed 1772, divided in 1776 into MontgomeryMontgomery County, VirginiaAs of the census of 2000, there were 83,629 people, 30,997 households, and 17,203 families residing in the county. The population density was 215 people per square mile . There were 32,527 housing units at an average density of 84 per square mile...
, WashingtonWashington County, VirginiaAs of the census of 2000, there were 51,103 people, 21,056 households, and 14,949 families residing in the county. The population density was 91 people per square mile . There were 22,985 housing units at an average density of 41 per square mile...
, and KentuckyKentucky County, VirginiaKentucky County was formed by the Commonwealth of Virginia by dividing Fincastle County into three new counties: Kentucky, Washington, and Montgomery, effective December 31, 1776. Four years later Kentucky County was abolished on June 30, 1780, when it was divided into Fayette, Jefferson, and...
counties. - Kentucky County, VirginiaKentucky County, VirginiaKentucky County was formed by the Commonwealth of Virginia by dividing Fincastle County into three new counties: Kentucky, Washington, and Montgomery, effective December 31, 1776. Four years later Kentucky County was abolished on June 30, 1780, when it was divided into Fayette, Jefferson, and...
had boundaries much the same as today's Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Modern counties created by Virginia
In 1780, Kentucky County was divided by the Virginia government into three counties:- Fayette County, KentuckyFayette County, KentuckyFayette County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. The population was 295,083 in the 2010 Census. Its territory, population and government are coextensive with the city of Lexington, which also serves as county seat....
- Jefferson County, KentuckyJefferson County, KentuckyAs of the census of 2000, there were 693,604 people, 287,012 households, and 183,113 families residing in the county. The population density was . There were 305,835 housing units at an average density of...
- Lincoln County, KentuckyLincoln County, KentuckyLincoln County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. The population was 24,742 in the 2010 Cesus. Its county seat is Stanford. Lincoln is a prohibition or "dry county" and is part of the Danville Micropolitan Statistical Area.- History :...
Between 1784 and 1788, six more counties would be created in Kentucky by the Virginia authorities:
- Nelson County, KentuckyNelson County, KentuckyNelson County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2010, the population was 43,437. Its county seat is Bardstown. The county is part of the Louisville/Jefferson County, KY–IN Metropolitan Statistical Area.- History :...
in 1784, from part of Jefferson County - Bourbon County, KentuckyBourbon County, KentuckyBourbon County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It is the remnant of what was previously a much larger Bourbon County, established as part of Virginia in 1785, and comprising what are now thirty-four modern Kentucky counties...
in 1785, from part of Fayette County - Madison County, KentuckyMadison County, KentuckyMadison County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2008, the population was 82,192. Its county seat is Richmond. The county is named for Virginia statesman James Madison, who later became the fourth President of the United States. This is also where famous pioneer Daniel...
in 1785, from part of Lincoln County - Mercer County, KentuckyMercer County, KentuckyMercer County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 20,817. Its county seat is Harrodsburg. The county is named for General Hugh Mercer...
in 1785, from part of Lincoln County - Mason County, KentuckyMason County, KentuckyMason County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 16,800. Its county seat is Maysville. The county is named for George Mason, a Virginia delegate to the U.S. Constitutional Convention, known as the "Father of the Bill of Rights"...
in 1788, from part of Bourbon County - Woodford County, KentuckyWoodford County, KentuckyWoodford County is a county located in the heart of the Bluegrass region of the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 23,208. Its county seat is Versailles. The county is named for General William Woodford, who was with General George Washington at Valley Forge...
in 1788, from part of Fayette County
These nine counties gained statehood in 1792 as the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Former counties created by the Commonwealth of Kentucky
- Beckham County, KentuckyBeckham County, KentuckyBeckham County, Kentucky was a county formed by the Kentucky General Assembly on February 9, 1904. Beckham County was created in the northeastern part of the state from parts of Carter County, Kentucky, Lewis County, Kentucky and Elliott County, Kentucky. The county seat was Olive Hill, Kentucky...
(1904) was dissolved by the Kentucky Court of AppealsKentucky Court of AppealsThe Kentucky Court of Appeals is the lower of Kentucky's two appellate courts, under the Kentucky Supreme Court. Prior to a 1975 amendment to the Kentucky Constitution the Kentucky Court of Appeals was the only appellate court in Kentucky....
on April 29, 1904 because it was not created in conformance with state law - Josh Bell County, KentuckyBell County, KentuckyBell County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It was formed August 1, 1867, from parts of Knox and Harlan Counties and augmented from Knox County in 1872. As of 2010 the population was 69,060. Its county seat is Pineville...
(1867–187?), originally named for Joshua Fry BellJoshua Fry BellJoshua Fry Bell was a Kentucky political figure.Bell was born in Danville, Kentucky, where he attended public schools and then Centre College, where he graduated in 1828...
, called simply Bell CountyBell County, KentuckyBell County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It was formed August 1, 1867, from parts of Knox and Harlan Counties and augmented from Knox County in 1872. As of 2010 the population was 69,060. Its county seat is Pineville...
sometime before 1880
LouisianaLouisianaLouisiana is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America. Its capital is Baton Rouge and largest city is New Orleans. Louisiana is the only state in the U.S. with political subdivisions termed parishes, which are local governments equivalent to counties...
The Territory of Orleans was divided into 12 counties on 10 Apr 1805; these were later re-organized into parishes on 31 Mar 1807:
- Acadia County, Orleans Territory
- Attakapas County, Orleans TerritoryAttakapas County, Orleans TerritoryAttakapas County was a former county in southern Louisiana and was one of twelve counties in the Territory of Orleans, newly defined by the United States federal government following the Louisiana Purchase. At its core was the Poste des Attakapas trading post, now St...
- Concordia County, Orleans Territory
- German Coast, Orleans Territory
- Iberville County, Orleans Territory
- LaFourche County, Orleans Territory
- Natchitoches County, Orleans Territory
- Opelousas County, Orleans Territory
- Orleans County, Orleans Territory
- Ouachita County, Orleans Territory
- Pointe Coupée County, Orleans Territory
- Rapides County, Orleans Territory
Former Parishes
- Biloxi Parish formed in 1811 from West Florida territory. It was eliminated in 1812 when part of the former West Florida area was transferred to Mississippi Territory.
- Carroll ParishCarroll Parish, LouisianaCarroll Parish is a former parish of Louisiana, formed in 1838 from part of Ouachita Parish. It was divided in 1877 into East Carroll Parish and West Carroll Parish....
formed in 1838 from part of Ouachita Parish. In 1877, it was divided into East Carroll Parish and West Carroll Parish. - Feliciana ParishFeliciana Parish, LouisianaFeliciana Parish is a former parish of Louisiana, formed in 1810 from West Florida territory. It was divided in 1824 into East Feliciana Parish and West Feliciana Parish. Feliciana is a Spanish word meaning Happy Land. It originated in 1775 and was named by Spanish Governor Galvez...
formed in 1810 from West Florida territory. In 1824, it was divided into East Feliciana Parish and West Feliciana Parish. - Pascagoula ParishPascagoula Parish, LouisianaPascagoula Parish is a former parish of Louisiana, formed in 1811 from West Florida territory. It was eliminated in 1812 when part of West Florida was transferred to Mississippi Territory....
formed in 1811 from West Florida territory. It was eliminated in 1812 when part of the former West Florida area was transferred to Mississippi Territory. - Warren ParishWarren Parish, LouisianaWarren Parish is a former parish of Louisiana, formed in 1811 from parts of Concordia Parish. The parish was located in parts of present day Madison and East Carroll Parishes. All of present day Madison Parish lying north of the point opposite Vicksburg, Mississippi, and all of present day East...
formed in 1811 from part of Concordia Parish, and merged into Concordia Parish and Ouachita Parish in 1814.
MaineMaineMaine is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Quebec to the northwest and New Brunswick to the northeast. Maine is both the northernmost and easternmost...
- Cornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County was a county of the former Province of New York, established on September 5, 1665 from of land that had been granted to the Duke of York in modern Maine. As established, the grant ran all the way from the St. Lawrence River to the Atlantic Ocean,between the Kennebec and St...
, established 1665, transferred to the Dominion of New EnglandDominion of New EnglandThe Dominion of New England in America was an administrative union of English colonies in the New England region of North America. The dominion was ultimately a failure because the area it encompassed was too large for a single governor to manage...
in 1686; to the Province of Massachusetts BayProvince of Massachusetts BayThe Province of Massachusetts Bay was a crown colony in North America. It was chartered on October 7, 1691 by William and Mary, the joint monarchs of the kingdoms of England and Scotland...
in 1692 and absorbed into York County (see below). - Devonshire County, Massachusetts Bay ColonyDevonshire County, District of Maine, Massachusetts Bay ColonyDevonshire County, District of Maine, Massachusetts Bay Colony was a short-lived county formed during the colonial territorial disputes between the Province of Massachusetts and the Province of Maine. The county existed from 1674 to 1675.-References:...
(1674–1675)
Counties organized by Massachusetts in the future State of Maine
The following counties of Massachusetts were organized by the 1780 constitution into the District of MaineDistrict of Maine
The District of Maine was a legal designation for what is now the U.S. state of Maine from American independence until the Missouri Compromise on March 4, 1820, after which it gained its independence from Massachusetts and became the 23rd state in the Union...
, which became a state
Maine
Maine is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Quebec to the northwest and New Brunswick to the northeast. Maine is both the northernmost and easternmost...
in 1820:
- York County, MassachusettsYork County, MaineYork County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, the population was 197,131. Its county seat is Alfred.Founded in 1636, it is the oldest county in Maine and one of the oldest in the United States....
, created 1652 as "Yorkshire County" and renamed "York CountyYork County, MassachusettsYork County, Massachusetts was a county in what is now the U.S. state of Maine. It was established in 1652 when the Massachusetts Bay Colony first asserted territorial claims over the settlements of southern Maine, extending from the Piscataqua River to just east of the mouth of the Presumpscot...
" in 1668 - Lincoln County, MassachusettsLincoln County, MaineLincoln County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 34,457. Its county seat is Wiscasset. It was founded in 1760 and named after the English city Lincoln. At its founding, it accounted for three-fifths of the State's land, and stretched east to Nova...
, created 1760 - Cumberland County, MassachusettsCumberland County, MaineCumberland County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 281,674. Its county seat is Portland, and is the most populous of the sixteen Maine counties, as well as the most affluent. Cumberland County has the deepest and second largest body of water in the...
, created 1761 - Hancock County, MassachusettsHancock County, MaineHancock County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 54,418. Its county seat is Ellsworth. It was incorporated on June 25, 1789...
, created 1790 - Washington County, MassachusettsWashington County, MaineWashington County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, its population was 32,856. Its county seat is Machias.Sometimes referred to as "Sunrise County" because it is the easternmost county in the United States, and it is often where the rising sun first shines on the 48...
, created 1790 - Kennebec County, MassachusettsKennebec County, MaineKennebec County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, its population was 122,151. Its county seat is Augusta. The center of population of Maine is located in Kennebec County, in the city of Augusta....
, created 1799 - Oxford County, MassachusettsOxford County, MaineOxford County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine with a population of 57,833 as of the 2010 U.S. census. Its county seat is Paris.Part of Oxford County is included in the Lewiston-Auburn, Maine, metropolitan New England City and Town Area while a different part of Oxford County is...
, created 1805 - Somerset County, MassachusettsSomerset County, MaineSomerset County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 52,228. Its county seat is Skowhegan.-History:...
, created 1809 - Penobscot County, MassachusettsPenobscot County, MainePenobscot County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. For U.S. Census statistical purposes, it is part of the Bangor, Maine, New England County Metropolitan Area . As of 2010, the population was 153,923...
, created 1817
See also Massachusetts, below.
MarylandMarylandMaryland is a U.S. state located in the Mid Atlantic region of the United States, bordering Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia to its south and west; Pennsylvania to its north; and Delaware to its east...
- Charles County: formed in 1650 from part of Saint Mary's County. Abolished in 1654. Referred to as Old Charles County.
- Durham County: formed in 1669 from part of Somerset County and nonorganized territory. Abolished in 1672 and incorporated in Worcester County.
- Worcester County: formed in 1672 from part of Durham County and nonorganized territory. Lost in 1685 when Delaware Colony was established.
Former counties of the colonial era
- Norfolk County, Massachusetts Bay ColonyNorfolk County, Massachusetts ColonyNorfolk County, Massachusetts Colony was one of the original four counties created in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The county was created by the Massachusetts General Court on May 10, 1643, when it was ordered "that the whole plantation within this jurisdiction be divided into four sheires"...
, an original county of the Massachusetts Bay ColonyMassachusetts Bay ColonyThe Massachusetts Bay Colony was an English settlement on the east coast of North America in the 17th century, in New England, situated around the present-day cities of Salem and Boston. The territory administered by the colony included much of present-day central New England, including portions...
, established 1643; divided in 1680 between Essex CountyEssex County, Massachusetts-National protected areas:* Parker River National Wildlife Refuge* Salem Maritime National Historic Site* Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site* Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge-Demographics:...
and the newly-formed Province of New HampshireProvince of New HampshireThe Province of New Hampshire is a name first given in 1629 to the territory between the Merrimack and Piscataqua rivers on the eastern coast of North America. It was formally organized as an English royal colony on October 7, 1691, during the period of English colonization...
; no connection with the Norfolk CountyNorfolk County, Massachusetts-National protected areas:* Adams National Historical Park* Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area * Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site* John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site-Demographics:...
organized in 1793 - Devonshire County, Massachusetts Bay ColonyDevonshire County, District of Maine, Massachusetts Bay ColonyDevonshire County, District of Maine, Massachusetts Bay Colony was a short-lived county formed during the colonial territorial disputes between the Province of Massachusetts and the Province of Maine. The county existed from 1674 to 1675.-References:...
(1674–1675)
Counties transferred from other colonies
- Cornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County was a county of the former Province of New York, established on September 5, 1665 from of land that had been granted to the Duke of York in modern Maine. As established, the grant ran all the way from the St. Lawrence River to the Atlantic Ocean,between the Kennebec and St...
, transferred to MassachusettsMassachusettsThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
in 1686 - Dukes County, Province of New YorkDukes County, New YorkDukes County, New York was a county of the New York from 1683 to 1691. It was formed on November 1, 1683, at the same time as Kings County, Queens County, and Duchess County. It consisted of the Elizabeth Islands, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket Island, all beyond the eastern end of Long Island...
, transferred to MassachusettsMassachusettsThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
in 1691
Counties organized by Massachusetts in the future State of Maine
The following counties of Massachusetts were organized by the 1780 constitution into the District of MaineDistrict of Maine
The District of Maine was a legal designation for what is now the U.S. state of Maine from American independence until the Missouri Compromise on March 4, 1820, after which it gained its independence from Massachusetts and became the 23rd state in the Union...
, which became a state
Maine
Maine is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Quebec to the northwest and New Brunswick to the northeast. Maine is both the northernmost and easternmost...
in 1820:
- York County, MassachusettsYork County, MaineYork County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, the population was 197,131. Its county seat is Alfred.Founded in 1636, it is the oldest county in Maine and one of the oldest in the United States....
, created 1652 as "Yorkshire County" and renamed "York CountyYork County, MassachusettsYork County, Massachusetts was a county in what is now the U.S. state of Maine. It was established in 1652 when the Massachusetts Bay Colony first asserted territorial claims over the settlements of southern Maine, extending from the Piscataqua River to just east of the mouth of the Presumpscot...
" in 1668 - Lincoln County, MassachusettsLincoln County, MaineLincoln County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 34,457. Its county seat is Wiscasset. It was founded in 1760 and named after the English city Lincoln. At its founding, it accounted for three-fifths of the State's land, and stretched east to Nova...
, created 1760 - Cumberland County, MassachusettsCumberland County, MaineCumberland County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 281,674. Its county seat is Portland, and is the most populous of the sixteen Maine counties, as well as the most affluent. Cumberland County has the deepest and second largest body of water in the...
, created 1761 - Hancock County, MassachusettsHancock County, MaineHancock County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 54,418. Its county seat is Ellsworth. It was incorporated on June 25, 1789...
, created 1790 - Washington County, MassachusettsWashington County, MaineWashington County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, its population was 32,856. Its county seat is Machias.Sometimes referred to as "Sunrise County" because it is the easternmost county in the United States, and it is often where the rising sun first shines on the 48...
, created 1790 - Kennebec County, MassachusettsKennebec County, MaineKennebec County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. In 2010, its population was 122,151. Its county seat is Augusta. The center of population of Maine is located in Kennebec County, in the city of Augusta....
, created 1799 - Oxford County, MassachusettsOxford County, MaineOxford County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine with a population of 57,833 as of the 2010 U.S. census. Its county seat is Paris.Part of Oxford County is included in the Lewiston-Auburn, Maine, metropolitan New England City and Town Area while a different part of Oxford County is...
, created 1805 - Somerset County, MassachusettsSomerset County, MaineSomerset County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. As of 2010, the population was 52,228. Its county seat is Skowhegan.-History:...
, created 1809 - Penobscot County, MassachusettsPenobscot County, MainePenobscot County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maine. For U.S. Census statistical purposes, it is part of the Bangor, Maine, New England County Metropolitan Area . As of 2010, the population was 153,923...
, created 1817
Revolutionary era
- Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed 1778 in support of Virginia's claim to present-day IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
and eastern MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
; abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784. Throughout this time, Detroit and Fort St. JosephFort St. JosephFort St. Joseph may refer to:In Canada:*Fort St. Joseph , on St. Joseph Island at southern end of the St. Marys River, now the site of Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site CanadaIn the United States:...
(present-day Niles, MichiganNiles, MichiganNiles is a city in Berrien and Cass counties in the U.S. state of Michigan, near South Bend, Indiana. The population was 11,600 at the 2010 census. It is the greater populated of two principal cities of and included in the Niles-Benton Harbor, Michigan Metropolitan Statistical Area, which has a...
) were occupied by British forces, and Virginia's jurisdiction in the region was therefore limited to the French settlements of CahokiaCahokia, IllinoisCahokia is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2000 census, the village had a population of 16,391. The name is a reference to one of the clans of the historic Illini confederacy, who were encountered by early French explorers to the region.Early European settlers also...
, KaskaskiaKaskaskia, IllinoisKaskaskia is a village in Randolph County, Illinois, United States. In the 2010 census the population was 14, making it the second-smallest incorporated community in the State of Illinois in terms of population. A major French colonial town of the Illinois Country, its peak population was about...
and VincennesVincennes, IndianaVincennes is a city in and the county seat of Knox County, Indiana, United States. It is located on the Wabash River in the southwestern part of the state. The population was 18,701 at the 2000 census...
, far to the south of Michigan.
Former counties of the Northwest, Indiana and Illinois territories
- Wayne County, Northwest Territory, proclaimed on August 15, 1796 following the British evacuation of Detroit; out of portions of Hamilton County, Northwest TerritoryHamilton County, OhioAs of 2000, there were 845,303 people, 346,790 households, and 212,582 families residing in the county. The population density was 2,075 people per square mile . There were 373,393 housing units at an average density of 917 per square mile...
and unorganized land. This first Wayne County originally encompassed all of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, including northwestern OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, northern IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, and a small portion of the present Lake Michigan shoreline of IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, the site of present-day ChicagoChicagoChicago is the largest city in the US state of Illinois. With nearly 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous in the US, after New York City and Los Angeles...
. In 1800, the area west of the extension of the present Indiana-Ohio border became part of Knox County, Indiana Territory, and a section in the east of the county's Ohio lands was included as part of the new Trumbull CountyTrumbull County, OhioAs of the census of 2000, there were 225,116 people, 89,020 households, and 61,690 families residing in the county. The population density was 365 people per square mile . There were 95,117 housing units at an average density of 154 per square mile...
. This first Wayne County was split upon Ohio's achievement of statehood in 1803; north of the Ordinance Line became part of Indiana TerritoryIndiana TerritoryThe Territory of Indiana was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 4, 1800, until November 7, 1816, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Indiana....
as a reorganized Wayne County; the county's remaining lands in Ohio briefly reverted to an unorganized status.
- Wayne County, Indiana Territory, established 1803 as a revival of the former county government, and included in Michigan Territory upon its creation in 1805.
- Knox County, Indiana Territory, established as Knox County, Northwest Territory in 1790; upon the organization of Indiana Territory, Knox County was enlarged to take in the western side of the Lower Peninsula and a large slice of the Upper Peninsula. It is unknown if Knox County ever exercised jurisdiction over its lands in the future Michigan.
- St. Clair County, Indiana Territory, established as St. Clair County, Northwest Territory in 1790; upon the organization of Indiana Territory, St. Clair County was enlarged to take in the western portion of the Upper Peninsula. When Illinois TerritoryIllinois TerritoryThe Territory of Illinois was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from March 1, 1809, until December 3, 1818, when the southern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Illinois. The area was earlier known as "Illinois Country" while under...
was set off from the Indiana Territory in 1809, St. Clair County was included in the new government. It can be presumed that this St. Clair County never exercised jurisdiction over its share of the future Michigan, due to the lack of non-native settlers.
Other counties organized by the Illinois Territory between 1809 and 1819, including Madison
Madison County, Illinois
Madison County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. Madison County is part of the Metro-East region of the St. Louis Metro Area. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 269,282, which is an increase of 4.0% from 258,941 in 2000. The county seat is Edwardsville, home to...
, Crawford, Bond
Bond County, Illinois
Bond County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is part of the St. Louis Metro Area. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 17,768, which is an increase of 0.8% from 17,633 in 2000. Its county seat is Greenville, Illinois....
, and Edwards
Edwards County, Illinois
Edwards County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 6,721, which is a decrease of 3.6% from 6,971 in 2000...
, notionally included parts of the future Michigan and Wisconsin territories in their boundaries, but do not appear to have exercised jurisdiction north of the current state line.
Former districts of Michigan Territory
The first governor of Michigan TerritoryMichigan Territory
The Territory of Michigan was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from June 30, 1805, until January 26, 1837, when the final extent of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Michigan...
, William Hull
William Hull
William Hull was an American soldier and politician. He fought in the American Revolution, was Governor of Michigan Territory, and was a general in the War of 1812, for which he is best remembered for surrendering Fort Detroit to the British.- Early life and Revolutionary War :He was born in...
, declared a county government into existence shortly after assuming power in 1805, but on the same day, ordered that four districts be organized:
- District of Detroit, the area surrounding the settlement at Detroit; in practice, this district was combined with the Huron district.
- District of Erie, the area south of the Huron RiverHuron River (Michigan)The Huron River is a river in southeastern Michigan, rising out of the Huron Swamp in Indian Springs Metropark in northern Oakland County and flowing into Lake Erie on the boundary between Wayne County and Monroe County...
and centered on present-day MonroeMonroe, MichiganMonroe is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 20,733 at the 2010 census. It is the largest city and county seat of Monroe County. The city is bordered on the south by Monroe Charter Township, but both are politically independent. The city is located approximately 14 miles ... - District of Huron, the area north of Detroit, encompassing today's Thumb (Michigan) and Mid-Michigan
- District of Michilimackinac, centered on the Straits of MackinacStraits of MackinacThe Straits of Mackinac is the strip of water that connects two of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and separates the Lower Peninsula of Michigan from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is a shipping lane providing passage for raw materials and finished goods, connecting, for...
and covering the northern half of the Lower Peninsula
Judicial acts and militia organization took place at the district level; the vestigial county government was never organized. District government lapsed after the British occupation of Detroit and Mackinac in 1812; following the recapture of Detroit in 1813, Hull's replacement as governor (by American reckoning), Lewis Cass
Lewis Cass
Lewis Cass was an American military officer and politician. During his long political career, Cass served as a governor of the Michigan Territory, an American ambassador, a U.S. Senator representing Michigan, and co-founder as well as first Masonic Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Michigan...
, abolished the district scheme. In 1815, the current Wayne County
Wayne County, Michigan
-History:Wayne County was one of the first counties formed when the Northwest Territory was organized. It was named for the American general "Mad Anthony" Wayne. It originally encompassed the entire area of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, as well as small sections that are now part of northern...
was organized; the county government traces its lineage to the 1796 county of that name.
Former counties of Michigan Territory
- Brown County, Michigan Territory, organized 1818, transferred to Wisconsin TerritoryWisconsin TerritoryThe Territory of Wisconsin was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 3, 1836, until May 29, 1848, when an eastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Wisconsin...
in 1836, now Brown County, Wisconsin - Crawford County, Michigan Territory, organized 1818, transferred to Wisconsin Territory in 1836, now Crawford County, Wisconsin
- Des Moines County, Michigan Territory, organized 1834, transferred to Wisconsin Territory in 1836 and Iowa TerritoryIowa TerritoryThe Territory of Iowa was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 4, 1838, until December 28, 1846, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Iowa.-History:...
in 1838, now Des Moines County, IowaDes Moines County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 40,325 in the county, with a population density of . There were 18,535 housing units, of which 17,003 were occupied.-2000 census:... - Dubuque County, Michigan Territory, organized 1834, transferred to Wisconsin Territory in 1836 and Iowa Territory in 1838, now Dubuque County, IowaDubuque County, IowaDubuque County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. The population was 93,653 in the 2010 census, an increase from 89,143 in the 2000 census. The county seat is the city of Dubuque. Dubuque County is coterminous with the Dubuque, Iowa Metropolitan Statistical Area, and is the seventh...
- Iowa County, Michigan Territory, organized 1829, transferred to Wisconsin Territory in 1836, now Iowa County, WisconsinIowa County, WisconsinIowa County is a county located in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of 2000, the population was 22,780. Its county seat and largest city is Dodgeville.Iowa County is part of the Madison Metropolitan Statistical Area.-Geography:According to the U.S...
- Milwaukee County, Michigan Territory, organized 1835, transferred to Wisconsin Territory in 1836, now Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Former counties of the State of Michigan
- Isle Royale County, Michigan, abolished in 1897, assigned to Keweenaw County, MichiganKeweenaw County, Michigan-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 2,301 people, 998 households, and 604 families residing in the county. The population density was 4 people per square mile . There were 2,327 housing units at an average density of 4 per square mile...
- Manitou County, MichiganManitou County, MichiganManitou County was an insular county in the U.S. state of Michigan consisting of Beaver Island and its surrounding islands, together with the Manitou Islands and Fox Islands in Lake Michigan. The county existed from 1855 to 1895. The county seat was at St...
, abolished in 1895, divided between CharlevoixCharlevoix County, Michigan-Airports:*Beaver Island is served by two airlines:**Welke Airport**Beaver Island Airport-Ferry service:*Beaver Island Boat Company maintains a regular auto ferry from Charlevoix:*The Ironton Ferry at Ironton, Michigan crosses the south arm of Lake Charlevoix...
and LeelanauLeelanau County, Michigan-History:The county's name is said to be a Native American word meaning "delight of life", but it is a neologism made up by Indian agent and ethnographer Henry Schoolcraft, who sometimes gave the name "Leelinau" to Native American women in his tales. He created many faux Indian place names in...
counties - Omeena County, Michigan, established in 1840, abolished in 1853, assigned to Grand Traverse County
- Washington County, Michigan, formed in 1867 from Marquette County, MichiganMarquette County, Michigan-National protected areas:* Hiawatha National Forest * Huron National Wildlife Refuge* Ottawa National Forest -University:Northern Michigan University is a four-year university, established in 1899, located in Marquette, Michigan, on Michigan's Upper Peninsula...
but declared unconstitutional
MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
- Manomin County, MinnesotaManomin County, MinnesotaManomin County was a county in Minnesota that existed separately for about one year from 1857 to 1858. The land shifted hands among three other counties for the next decade. When it was formed, it was the smallest county in the United States at roughly 18 square miles...
(1857–1858) disorganized and shifted between three counties it became part of Anoka CountyAnoka County, MinnesotaAnoka County is the fourth-most populous county in the U.S. state of Minnesota. The county is bordered by the counties of Isanti on the north, Chisago and Washington on the east, Hennepin and Ramsey on the south, Sherburne on the west, and the Mississippi River on the southwest.As of 2010, Anoka...
in 1869-1870 - Monongalia County, MinnesotaMonongalia County, MinnesotaMonongalia County is a former county in the U.S. state of Minnesota. It was identified in 1858, although the Dakota War of 1862 delayed its organization until 1861. The county seat was at New London,after a brief staying at Columbia....
(1861–1870) merged with Kandiyohi CountyKandiyohi County, MinnesotaKandiyohi County is a county located in the U.S. state of Minnesota. As of 2010, its population was 42,239. Its county seat is Willmar.- History :... - Pembina County, Minnesota Territory (1849–1858, reconstituted as Pembina County, Dakota Territory in 1861, eventually reduced to present-day Pembina County, North DakotaPembina County, North DakotaPembina County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Dakota. At the time of the 2010 Census its population was 7,413. The county seat is Cavalier....
.)
MississippiMississippiMississippi is a U.S. state located in the Southern United States. Jackson is the state capital and largest city. The name of the state derives from the Mississippi River, which flows along its western boundary, whose name comes from the Ojibwe word misi-ziibi...
- Bourbon County, Georgia (organized by GeorgiaGeorgia (U.S. state)Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1732, the last of the original Thirteen Colonies. The state is named after King George II of Great Britain. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution, on January 2, 1788...
in 1785 out of disputed Yazoo landsYazoo landsThe Yazoo lands were the sparsely-populated central and western areas of the U.S. state of Georgia, when its western border stretched back to the Mississippi River. It was named for the Yazoo tribe of Native Americans. Several other places and things were named Yazoo, either for or along with the...
in present day MississippiMississippiMississippi is a U.S. state located in the Southern United States. Jackson is the state capital and largest city. The name of the state derives from the Mississippi River, which flows along its western boundary, whose name comes from the Ojibwe word misi-ziibi...
; dissolved in 1788) - Pearl County, Mississippi (1872–1878), later reformed as Pearl River CountyPearl River County, Mississippi-National protected areas:*Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge *De Soto National Forest -Demographics:The census estimates of 2006 place the county population over 57,000 and place it among the 10 fastest growing counties in the U.S. As of the census of 2000, there were 48,621 people, 18,078...
in 1890
Three Alabama counties were established in the Mississippi Territory that preceded the two states: Baldwin County, Alabama
Baldwin County, Alabama
-2010:Whereas according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau:*85.7% White*9.4% Black*0.7% Native American*0.7% Asian*0.0% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander*1.5% Two or more races*4.4% Hispanic or Latino -2000:...
; Madison County, Alabama
Madison County, Alabama
Madison County is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama, and is a major part of the Huntsville Metropolitan Area.It is also included in the merged Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. The county is named in honor of James Madison, fourth President of the United States of America, and the...
; Washington County, Alabama
Washington County, Alabama
Washington County is a county of the U.S. state of Alabama. The county was named in honor of George Washington, first President of the United States of America. As of 2010, the population was 17,581. Its county seat is Chatom. Washington County is a dry county.-History:The area was long inhabited...
.
MissouriMissouriMissouri is a US state located in the Midwestern United States, bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska. With a 2010 population of 5,988,927, Missouri is the 18th most populous state in the nation and the fifth most populous in the Midwest. It...
- Clark County, Missouri (1818-1819) (Not the same as the current Clark County, MissouriClark County, MissouriClark County is a county located in the U.S. state of Missouri. As of 2010, the population was 7,139. Its county seat is Kahoka. The county was organized in 1836 and named after William Clark, leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and later a Governor of Missouri Territory.Clark County is part...
) - Dodge County, Missouri (1849–1853)
- Hempstead County, Missouri (1818–1819)
- Lillard County, Missouri (1821–1825)
MontanaMontanaMontana is a state in the Western United States. The western third of Montana contains numerous mountain ranges. Smaller, "island ranges" are found in the central third of the state, for a total of 77 named ranges of the Rocky Mountains. This geographical fact is reflected in the state's name,...
- Edgerton County, Montana, created by the Territorial Legislature in 1865, renamed Lewis and Clark CountyLewis and Clark County, Montana-National protected areas:* Flathead National Forest * Helena National Forest * Lewis and Clark National Forest * Lolo National Forest * Rocky Mountain Front Conservation Area -Demographics:...
in 1867
NevadaNevadaNevada is a state in the western, mountain west, and southwestern regions of the United States. With an area of and a population of about 2.7 million, it is the 7th-largest and 35th-most populous state. Over two-thirds of Nevada's people live in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, which contains its...
- Bullfrog County, NevadaBullfrog County, NevadaBullfrog County was a short-lived county in the U.S. state of Nevada, created by the Nevada Legislature in 1987. It consisted of an uninhabited area around Yucca Mountain, completely enclosed by southern Nye County, the county from which it was created. Its creation was ruled in violation of the...
, created from a small portion of Nye County, NevadaNye County, Nevada-National protected areas:* Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge* Death Valley National Park * Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest * Spring Mountains National Recreation Area -Demographics:...
in 1987, reabsorbed in 1989. Population: 0. - Ormsby County, NevadaOrmsby County, NevadaOrmsby County was a county of Nevada from 1861 until 1969. It contained Carson City, the county seat and later state capital, founded two years earlier. It was named after Major William M...
, now independent city of Carson CityCarson City, NevadaThe Consolidated Municipality of Carson City is the capital of the state of Nevada. The words Consolidated Municipality refer to a series of changes in 1969 which abolished Ormsby County and merged all the settlements contained within its borders into Carson City. Since that time Carson City has... - Pautah County, California - created by the CaliforniaCaliforniaCalifornia is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
legislature out of territory the state believed would be ceded to it north of Lake TahoeLake TahoeLake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada of the United States. At a surface elevation of , it is located along the border between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Its depth is , making it the USA's second-deepest...
, but which was given to NevadaNevadaNevada is a state in the western, mountain west, and southwestern regions of the United States. With an area of and a population of about 2.7 million, it is the 7th-largest and 35th-most populous state. Over two-thirds of Nevada's people live in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, which contains its...
. County never officially organized. - Roop County, NevadaRoop County, NevadaRoop County is a defunct county of Nevada. It was created as Lake County in 1861 as one of the original nine counties of Nevada. The name Lake County was chosen on account of the many lakes in the area, including Honey Lake, Pyramid Lake, and Winnemucca Lake.-History:In 1862 Lake County was...
- Portions west of 120°W became Lassen County, CaliforniaLassen County, CaliforniaLassen County is a county located in the northeastern portion of the U.S. state of California. As of the 2010 census, the population was 34,895, up from 33,828 at the 2000 census...
, remainder annexed by Washoe County, NevadaWashoe County, NevadaWashoe County is a county located in the U.S. state of Nevada. The population was 421,407 at the 2010 census. Its county seat is Reno. Washoe County includes the Reno-Sparks metropolitan area.-History:...
in 1883. Also known as Lake County.
New HampshireNew HampshireNew Hampshire is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state was named after the southern English county of Hampshire. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the south, Vermont to the west, Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Canadian...
- Norfolk County, Massachusetts ColonyNorfolk County, Massachusetts ColonyNorfolk County, Massachusetts Colony was one of the original four counties created in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The county was created by the Massachusetts General Court on May 10, 1643, when it was ordered "that the whole plantation within this jurisdiction be divided into four sheires"...
(1643–1679) - became Essex County, MassachusettsEssex County, Massachusetts-National protected areas:* Parker River National Wildlife Refuge* Salem Maritime National Historic Site* Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site* Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge-Demographics:...
and the entire state of New HampshireNew HampshireNew Hampshire is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state was named after the southern English county of Hampshire. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the south, Vermont to the west, Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Canadian...
.
New Mexico TerritoryNew Mexico Territorythumb|right|240px|Proposed boundaries for State of New Mexico, 1850The Territory of New Mexico was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from September 9, 1850, until January 6, 1912, when the final extent of the territory was admitted to the Union as the State of...
- Santa Ana County, New Mexico TerritorySanta Ana County, New Mexico TerritorySanta Ana County was one of the seven original partidos created in New Mexico under Mexican rule. Under U.S. rule, it became a U.S. Territorial county from 1852 until 1876, when it was absorbed by Bernalillo County. It does not exist today as an administrative unit...
(1844–1876) absorbed by Bernalillo CountyBernalillo County, New Mexico-2010:Whereas according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau:*69.4% White*3.0% Black*4.8% Native American*2.3% Asian*0.1% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander*4.4% Two or more races*16.0% Other races*47.9% Hispanic or Latino -2000:...
New YorkNew YorkNew York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
& Province of New YorkProvince of New YorkThe Province of New York was an English and later British crown territory that originally included all of the present U.S. states of New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Vermont, along with inland portions of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maine, as well as eastern Pennsylvania...
- Charlotte County, Province of New YorkCharlotte County, Province of New YorkCharlotte County was a county in the colonial Province of New York in the British American colonies. It was created from Albany County on March 24, 1772. The county was named for Charlotte, Princess Royal, oldest daughter and fourth child of George III of the United Kingdom. Its boundaries extended...
(renamed and partitioned). See Washington County, New YorkWashington County, New YorkWashington County is a county located in the U.S. state of New York. It is part of the Glens Falls, New York, Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2010 census, the population was 63,216. It was named for the Revolutionary War general George Washington...
. - Cornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County, Province of New YorkCornwall County was a county of the former Province of New York, established on September 5, 1665 from of land that had been granted to the Duke of York in modern Maine. As established, the grant ran all the way from the St. Lawrence River to the Atlantic Ocean,between the Kennebec and St...
(transferred to MassachusettsMassachusettsThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
in 1686). - Cumberland County, Province of New York (claimed by and transferred to VermontVermontVermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
, unclear if ever implemented or administered). See Albany County, New YorkAlbany County, New YorkAlbany County is a county located in the U.S. state of New York, and is part of the Albany-Schenectady-Troy Metropolitan Statistical Area. The name is from the title of the Duke of York and Albany, who became James II of England . As of the 2010 census, the population was 304,204...
. - Dukes County, Province of New YorkDukes County, New YorkDukes County, New York was a county of the New York from 1683 to 1691. It was formed on November 1, 1683, at the same time as Kings County, Queens County, and Duchess County. It consisted of the Elizabeth Islands, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket Island, all beyond the eastern end of Long Island...
(transferred to MassachusettsMassachusettsThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
in 1691). - Gloucester County, New YorkGloucester County, New YorkGloucester County, New York is a former county in New York that became part of the state of Vermont. It was a part of Albany County in the Province of New York until 1770 and was lost to Vermont in 1777. At that time, Vermont was holding itself out as the Republic of Vermont and did not become a...
(claimed by and transferred to VermontVermontVermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
, unclear if ever implemented or administered). - Tryon County, New YorkTryon County, New YorkTryon County, New York was a county in the colonial Province of New York in the British American colonies. It was created from Albany County on March 24, 1772. It was named for William Tryon, the last provincial governor of New York. Its boundaries extended far further than any current county...
(renamed and partitioned). See also: Montgomery County, New YorkMontgomery County, New YorkAs of the census of 2000, there were 49,708 people, 20,038 households, and 13,104 families residing in the county. The population density was 123 people per square mile . There were 22,522 housing units at an average density of 56 per square mile... - Yorkshire County, Province of New YorkYorkshire County, Province of New YorkThe Shire of York , was the first large governmental unit organized in the English Province of New York soon after English control of the area was established in 1664.- History :...
(original English county, partitioned in 1683 into Kings, Queens (including modern Nassau), Suffolk, Richmond and Westchester (including modern Bronx) counties.)
Counties formed by the colonial government
- Albemarle County, North CarolinaAlbemarle County, North CarolinaAlbemarle County, established in 1664, is a former county located in the state of North Carolina. Before being abolished in 1689, the following four counties were formed: Chowan County, Currituck County, Pasquotank County, and Perquimans County.-References:*...
, created 1664, abolished 1689 - Bath County, North CarolinaBath County, North CarolinaBath County is an extinct county formerly located in the state of North Carolina. The county was established in 1696 and was abolished in 1739. The town of Bath was a stopping place of Edward Teach, better known as the pirate Blackbeard...
, created 1696, abolished 1739 - Dobbs County, North CarolinaDobbs County, North CarolinaDobbs County is a former county located in the state of North Carolina. It was formed in 1758 from Johnston County, though the legislative act that created it did not become effective until April 10, 1759...
, created 1758, effective 1759; lost territory to Wayne CountyWayne County, North Carolina- Cities and towns :*Brogden*Dudley*Elroy*Eureka*Fremont*Goldsboro*Mar-Mac*Mount Olive*Pikeville*Rosewood*Seven Springs*Walnut Creek*Grantham-Geography:According to the U.S...
in 1779, remainder of county divided in 1791 between Glasgow (see below) and LenoirLenoir County, North Carolina-Demographics:As of 2005, there were 57,961 people, 23,862 households, and 16,178 families residing in the county. The population density was 149.2 people per square mile . There were 27,940 housing units at an average density of 68 per square mile...
counties - Bute County, North CarolinaBute County, North CarolinaBute County is a former county located in the state of North Carolina. It was formed in 1764 from the eastern part of Granville County. It was named for John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute, Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1762 to 1763. In 1779 Bute County was divided into Franklin County and...
, created 1764, divided in 1779 into FranklinFranklin County, North Carolina-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 47,260 people, 17,843 households, and 12,882 families residing in the county. The population density was 96 people per square mile . There were 20,364 housing units at an average density of 41 per square mile...
and WarrenWarren County, North Carolina-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 19,972 people, 7,708 households, and 5,449 families residing in the county. The population density was 47 people per square mile . There were 10,548 housing units at an average density of 25 per square mile...
counties - Tryon County, North CarolinaTryon County, North CarolinaTryon County is a former county which was located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It was formed in 1768 from the part of Mecklenburg County west of the Catawba River, although the legislative act that created it did not become effective until April 10, 1769. Due to inaccurate and delayed...
created 1768, effective 1769; divided in 1779 into LincolnLincoln County, North Carolina-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 71,498 people, 24,041 households, and 18,174 families residing in the county. The population density was 214 people per square mile . There were 25,717 housing units at an average density of 86 per square mile...
and RutherfordRutherford County, North Carolina-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 62,899 people, 25,191 households, and 17,935 families residing in the county. The population density was 112 people per square mile . There were 29,535 housing units at an average density of 52 per square mile...
counties
Counties transferred to Federal jurisdiction, 1790
Seven counties were established by the State of North Carolina in its western territories following independence; the entire overmountain area (the former Washington DistrictWashington District, North Carolina
The Washington District of North Carolina was in a remote area west of the Appalachian Mountains, officially existing for only a short period of time , although it had been self-proclaimed and functioning as an independent governing entity since the spring of 1775...
), was transferred to Federal jurisdiction in 1790 and formed into the Territory South of the River Ohio. The so-called Southwest Territory would achieve statehood in 1796, as Tennessee
Tennessee
Tennessee is a U.S. state located in the Southeastern United States. It has a population of 6,346,105, making it the nation's 17th-largest state by population, and covers , making it the 36th-largest by total land area...
.
- Washington County, North Carolina, established 1777
- Sullivan County, North Carolina, established 1779
- Davidson County, North CarolinaDavidson County, TennesseeDavidson County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of 2010, the population was 626,681. Its county seat is Nashville.In 1963, the City of Nashville and the Davidson County government merged, so the county government is now known as the "Metropolitan Government of Nashville and...
, established 1783 - Greene County, North Carolina, established 1783
- Hawkins County, North CarolinaHawkins County, TennesseeHawkins County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of 2010, the population was 56,833. Its county seat is Rogersville, Tennessee's second-oldest town....
, established 1786 - Sumner County, North CarolinaSumner County, TennesseeSumner County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of 2000, the population was 130,449. Its county seat is Gallatin, but its largest town is Hendersonville...
, established 1786 - Tennessee County, established 1788, divided at Tennessee statehood in 1796 into Montgomery County, TennesseeMontgomery County, TennesseeMontgomery County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. The county seat is Clarksville. The population was 172,331 at the 2010 census. It is one of the four counties included in the Clarksville, TN–KY Metropolitan Statistical Area....
and Robertson County, Tennessee
North DakotaNorth DakotaNorth Dakota is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States of America, along the Canadian border. The state is bordered by Canada to the north, Minnesota to the east, South Dakota to the south and Montana to the west. North Dakota is the 19th-largest state by area in the U.S....
- Pembina County, Minnesota Territory (1849–1858, reconstituted as Pembina County, Dakota Territory in 1861, eventually reduced to present-day Pembina County, North DakotaPembina County, North DakotaPembina County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Dakota. At the time of the 2010 Census its population was 7,413. The county seat is Cavalier....
.)
OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
- Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed in 1778 and constituted most of present-day IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, and WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
; abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784; see Illinois CountryIllinois CountryThe Illinois Country , also known as Upper Louisiana, was a region in what is now the Midwestern United States that was explored and settled by the French during the 17th and 18th centuries. The terms referred to the entire Upper Mississippi River watershed, though settlement was concentrated in...
.
Choctaw NationChoctaw Nation of OklahomaThe Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is a semi-autonomous Native American homeland comprising twelve tribal districts. The Choctaw Nation maintains a special relationship with both the United States and Oklahoma governments...
- Apukshunnubbee DistrictApukshunnubbee DistrictApukshunnubbee District was one of three administrative super-regions comprising the former Choctaw Nation in the Indian Territory. Also called the Second District, it encompassed the southeastern one-third of the nation....
:- Bok Tuklo County
- Cedar CountyCedar County, Choctaw NationCedar County was a political subdivision of the Choctaw Nation in the Indian Territory. The county formed part of the nation’s Apukshunnubbee District, or Second District, one of three administrative super-regions....
- Eagle County
- Nashoba CountyNashoba County, Indian TerritoryNashoba County was a political subdivision of the Choctaw Nation in the Indian Territory. The county formed part of the nation’s Apukshunnubbee District, or Second District, one of three administrative super-regions....
- Red River County
- Towson County
- Wade County
- Moshulatubbee DistrictMoshulatubbee DistrictMoshulatubbee District was one of three administrative super-regions comprising the former Choctaw Nation in the Indian Territory. Also called the First District, it encompassed the northern one-third of the nation....
- Gaines County
- Sans Bois County
- Skullyville County
- Sugar Loaf County
- Tobucksy County
- Pushmataha DistrictPushmataha DistrictPushmataha District was one of three administrative super-regions comprising the former Choctaw Nation in the Indian Territory. Also called the Third District, it encompassed the southwestern one-third of the nation....
- Atoka County
- Blue CountyBlue County, Choctaw NationBlue County was a political subdivision of the Pushmataha District of the Choctaw Nation, in the Indian Territory. The county was dissolved upon Oklahoma’s statehood in 1907. The territory comprising the former county is incorporated primarily into the present-day Bryan County, Oklahoma.Blue County...
- Jack's Fork CountyJack's Fork CountyJack’s Fork County, also known as Jack Fork County, was a political subdivision of the Choctaw Nation of Indian Territory. The county formed part of the nation’s Pushmataha District, or Third District, one of three administrative super-regions....
- Jackson CountyJackson County, Choctaw NationJackson County was a political subdivision of the Pushmataha District of the Choctaw Nation, in the Indian Territory. The county was dissolved upon Oklahoma’s statehood in 1907....
- Kiamitia County (Kiamichi County)Kiamitia CountyKiamitia County, also known as Kiamichi County, was a political subdivision of the Choctaw Nation of Indian Territory. The county formed part of the nation’s Pushmataha District, or Third District, one of three administrative super-regions....
Oklahoma TerritoryOklahoma TerritoryThe Territory of Oklahoma was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from May 2, 1890, until November 16, 1907, when it was joined with the Indian Territory under a new constitution and admitted to the Union as the State of Oklahoma.-Organization:Oklahoma Territory's...
- Beaver County, Oklahoma TerritoryBeaver County, OklahomaBeaver County is a county located in the U.S. state of Oklahoma. As of the 2010 census, the population was 5,636. The county seat is Beaver....
- Day County, Oklahoma TerritoryDay County, Oklahoma TerritoryDay County was one of the original counties of Oklahoma Territory. Day County was in the western part of the territory, along the Texas border. When it was originally established, it was known as E County...
Abolished at OklahomaOklahomaOklahoma is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. With an estimated 3,751,351 residents as of the 2010 census and a land area of 68,667 square miles , Oklahoma is the 28th most populous and 20th-largest state...
statehood. Split into Roger Mills County and Ellis CountyEllis County, OklahomaEllis County is a county located in the U.S. state of Oklahoma. As of 2000, the population was 4,075. Its county seat is Arnett.-Geography:... - Greer County, TexasGreer County, TexasGreer County, was a county created by the Texas legislature on February 8, 1860 , was land claimed by both Texas and the United States.-Origin of the dispute:...
(1888–1895, transferred to Oklahoma TerritoryOklahoma TerritoryThe Territory of Oklahoma was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from May 2, 1890, until November 16, 1907, when it was joined with the Indian Territory under a new constitution and admitted to the Union as the State of Oklahoma.-Organization:Oklahoma Territory's...
under a Supreme CourtSupreme Court of the United StatesThe Supreme Court of the United States is the highest court in the United States. It has ultimate appellate jurisdiction over all state and federal courts, and original jurisdiction over a small range of cases...
decision)
OregonOregonOregon is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is located on the Pacific coast, with Washington to the north, California to the south, Nevada on the southeast and Idaho to the east. The Columbia and Snake rivers delineate much of Oregon's northern and eastern...
- Umpqua County, OregonUmpqua County, OregonUmpqua County was a county located in the U.S. state of Oregon. It was created on January 24, 1851, by the Oregon Territorial Legislature embracing the lands along the Umpqua River in southwestern Oregon. Gold had been discovered in the Umpqua region, which brought a rapid increase of settlers to...
created 1851, gradually reduced in size until 1862, when what remained was incorporated into Douglas CountyDouglas County, Oregon-National protected areas:* Crater Lake National Park * Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest * Siuslaw National Forest * Umpqua National Forest * Willamette National Forest -Adjacent counties:* Lane County, Oregon -... - Champooik or Champoeg County, one of the four original districts into which the Oregon Country was divided in 1843; Renamed Marion CountyMarion County, OregonMarion County is a county located in the U.S. state of Oregon. It was originally named the Champooick District, after Champoeg, a meeting place on the Willamette River. On September 3, 1849, the territorial legislature renamed it in honor of Francis Marion, a Continental Army general of the...
in 1849. - Twality, Tuality or Falatine County, one of the four original districts into which the Oregon Country was divided in 1843; Renamed Washington CountyWashington County, Oregon- Major highways :* Interstate 5* Interstate 205* U.S. Route 26* Oregon Route 6* Oregon Route 8* Oregon Route 10* Oregon Route 47* Oregon Route 99W* Oregon Route 210* Oregon Route 217* Oregon Route 219-Demographics:...
in 1849.
PennsylvaniaPennsylvaniaThe Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a U.S. state that is located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The state borders Delaware and Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north, and New Jersey to...
- Ontario CountyBradford County, Pennsylvania-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 62,761 people, 24,453 households, and 17,312 families residing in the county. The population density was 54 people per square mile . There were 28,664 housing units at an average density of 25 per square mile...
, 1810-1812 renamed Bradford County
South CarolinaSouth CarolinaSouth Carolina is a state in the Deep South of the United States that borders Georgia to the south, North Carolina to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Originally part of the Province of Carolina, the Province of South Carolina was one of the 13 colonies that declared independence...
- Beware: South Carolina legally dissolved all overarching "districts" (which often included multiple counties) in 1800. Nevertheless, surviving counties were often referred to incorrectly as "districts" as late as the 1860s.
- Bartholomew County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791.
- Beaufort District created in 1768 from Granville County. Abolished 1800.
- Berkeley (1) County created in 1682 from Craven County. Abolished 1768.
- Berkeley (2) County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791. The third version of Berkeley CountyBerkeley County, South CarolinaBerkeley County is a county in the U.S. state of South Carolina. In 2000, its population was 142,651. The 2005 Census Bureau estimate placed the population at 151,673. Its county seat is Moncks Corner....
was created in 1882 and remains today. - Camden District created in 1768 from Craven County. Abolished 1800.
- Carteret County created in 1684 from Colleton County. Abolished 1708.
- Charles Town District created in 1768 from Berkeley and Colleton Counties. It was renamed Charleston District in 1785, and abolished in 1800.
- Charleston (1) County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791. A second Charleston CountyCharleston County, South CarolinaCharleston County is a county located in the U.S. state of South Carolina. According to a 2005 U.S. Census Bureau estimate, its population was 330,368. Its county seat is Charleston. It is the third-most populous county in the state . Charleston County was created in 1901 by an act of the South...
was created in 1800 and remains today. - Cheraws District created in 1768 from Craven County. Abolished 1800.
- Claremont CountyClaremont County, South CarolinaClaremont County was a former county in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina. It lasted from its creation from 1785, when it was created from the Camden District, until it was absorbed into the newly created Sumter District in 1800....
created in 1785 from Camden County. Abolished 1800. - Clarendon (1) County created in 1785 from Camden County. Its county seat was in Jamesville. Abolished 1800. Clarendon (2) County was re-established in 1855 with its county seat in ManningManning, South CarolinaManning is a city in South Carolina and the county seat of Clarendon County in the Southeastern United States, located in the center of the county, just to the east of Interstate 95 and at the intersection of U.S. 301 and U.S. 521. The population was estimated to be 3,943 as of 2008, down 2% from...
and remains today. - Colleton (1) County created in 1682 from Craven County. Abolished 1768.
- Colleton (2) County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791. A third Colleton County was created in 1800 from Charleston District and remains today.
- Craven County was part of Carolina's first charter in 1664. Abolished 1768.
- Georgetown District created in 1768 from Craven County. Abolished 1800.
- Granville (1) County created in 1708 from Carteret County. Abolished 1768.
- Granville (2) County created in 1785 from Beaufort District. Abolished 1791.
- Hilton County created in 1785 from Beaufort District. Abolished 1791.
- Kingston County created in 1785 from Georgetown District. Abolished 1801.
- Lewisburg County created in 1785 from Orangeburg District. Abolished 1791.
- Lexington (1) County created in 1785 from Orangeburg District. Abolished 1791. Lexington (2) County was re-established in 1804 from Orangeburg County and remains today.
- Liberty County created in 1785 from Georgetown District. Abolished 1798.
- Lincoln County created in 1785 from Beaufort District. Abolished 1791.
- Marion County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791.
- Ninety-six DistrictNinety-Six District, South CarolinaNinety-Six District is a former judicial district in the U.S. state of South Carolina. It existed as a district from 29 July 1769 to 31 December 1799. The court house and jail for Ninety-Six District were in Ninety Six, South Carolina....
created in 1768 from Indian lands. Abolished 1800. - Orangeburgh District created in 1768 from Orangburgh Township and Amelia Township. Spelling officially changed to Orangeburg District in 1783. Abolished 1800.
- Orange County created in 1785 from Orangeburg District. Abolished 1791. (Note: Orangeburg County was created in 1791 from Orangeburg District and remains today.)
- Pendleton County was created in 1789 from Cherokee Indian lands. It was joined to the overarching Washington District in 1791 along with Greenville County. In 1798 Washington District was renamed Pendleton District an overarching district including Pendleton County and Greenville County. In 1800 South Carolina abolished all the overarching districts. So in 1800 only the separate Pendleton County and Greenville County emerged. The remaining Pendleton County was abolished in 1826.
- Pendleton District was created in 1798 by renaming Washington District. This overarching Pendleton District was dissolved two years later in 1800. However Pendleton County remained and emerged from a part of Pendleton District. Pendleton County was abolished 1826.
- Pinckney District created in 1791 from Ninety-six District and Cheraws District. Abolished 1800.
- Salem CountySalem County, South CarolinaSalem County was a former county in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina. It was created in 1791 from Claremont and Clarendon counties and lasted until it was absorbed into the newly created Sumter District in 1800....
created in 1792 from Claremont County and Clarendon County. Abolished 1800. - Shrewsbury County created in 1785 from Beaufort District. Abolished 1791.
- Spartan County created in 1785 from Ninety-six District. Changed to Spartanburg County in 1791 and remains today.
- Washington County created in 1785 from Charleston District. Abolished 1791.
- Washington DistrictWashington District, South CarolinaWashington District is a former judicial district in South Carolina. It existed as a district from 19 February 1791 to 1 January 1800. The court house and jail for Washington District were in Pickensville, South Carolina....
created in 1791 from Cherokee Indian lands. Washington District included Greenville County (created 1786) and Pendleton County (created 1789) Washington District was renamed in 1798 to Pendleton District. - Winton County created in 1785 from Orangeburg District. Abolished 1791.
- Winyah County created in 1785 from Georgetown District. Abolished 1800.
South DakotaSouth DakotaSouth Dakota is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is named after the Lakota and Dakota Sioux American Indian tribes. Once a part of Dakota Territory, South Dakota became a state on November 2, 1889. The state has an area of and an estimated population of just over...
- Washabaugh County, South DakotaWashabaugh County, South DakotaWashabaugh County is a former county in South Dakota. The county was named after Frank Washabaugh, a prominent South Dakota politician.-History:...
(1889–1979) The eastern part of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is now under the control of Jackson County. - Armstrong County, South DakotaArmstrong County, South DakotaArmstrong County is the name shared by two defunct counties that existed in Dakota Territory and South Dakota from 1873 to 1879 and again from 1883 to 1952.-Armstrong County :...
Armstrong County was disorganized in 1952. - Washington County, South Dakota (1883–1943)
TennesseeTennesseeTennessee is a U.S. state located in the Southeastern United States. It has a population of 6,346,105, making it the nation's 17th-largest state by population, and covers , making it the 36th-largest by total land area...
- James County, TennesseeJames County, TennesseeJames County was created by an act of the Tennessee General Assembly on January 30, 1871. Lands were taken from a small portion of Bradley County and the eastern third of Hamilton County. James County was named in honor of the Rev. Jesse J. James, the father of Elbert Abdiel James who introduced...
(1870–1919) - Now part of Hamilton CountyHamilton County, TennesseeHamilton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. It was named for Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury. The 2005 Census Estimate placed the population at 310,935 . Its county seat is Chattanooga....
. The county seat was OoltewahOoltewah, TennesseeOoltewah is a census-designated place in Hamilton County, Tennessee, United States. The population was 687 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Chattanooga, TN–GA Metropolitan Statistical Area.- History :...
. - Tennessee County, North Carolina (1796) - A North CarolinaNorth CarolinaNorth Carolina is a state located in the southeastern United States. The state borders South Carolina and Georgia to the south, Tennessee to the west and Virginia to the north. North Carolina contains 100 counties. Its capital is Raleigh, and its largest city is Charlotte...
county that was divided and renamed Montgomery CountyMontgomery County, TennesseeMontgomery County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. The county seat is Clarksville. The population was 172,331 at the 2010 census. It is one of the four counties included in the Clarksville, TN–KY Metropolitan Statistical Area....
and Robertson County when Tennessee achieved statehood to lessen confusion.
TexasTexasTexas is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state by area in the contiguous United States.The name, based on the Caddo word "Tejas" meaning "friends" or "allies", was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in...
- Buchel County, TexasBuchel County, TexasBuchel County is a defunct county in the U.S. state of Texas.-History:On March 15, 1887 the Texas legislature passed legislation that divided Presidio County into four counties: Presidio, Jeff Davis, Foley and Buchel...
(1887–1897, formed from part of Presidio CountyPresidio County, TexasPresidio County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. In 2000, its population was 7,304. Its county seat is Marfa. Presidio County is in the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas and is named for the ancient border settlement of Presidio del Norte.-Geography:Presidio County is triangular in...
, absorbed by Brewster CountyBrewster County, TexasBrewster County is a county located in western part of the US state of Texas, along the border with Mexico. It is one of the nine counties that comprise the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas. As of the 2000 census, the population is 8,866. In 2009, the population was estimated to be 9,481. Its...
) - Dawson County (defunct), Texas (1858–1866, became parts of UvaldeUvalde County, TexasUvalde County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. In 2000, its population was 25,926. Its county seat is Uvalde. The county is named for Juan de Ugalde, the Spanish governor of Coahuila. Uvalde County was founded by Reading Wood Black who also founded the city of Uvalde,...
and KinneyKinney County, TexasKinney County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. In 2000, its population was 3,379. Its seat is Brackettville. Kinney County is named for Henry Lawrence Kinney, an early settler.-Geography:...
counties; not to be confused with present day Dawson County) - Encinal County, TexasEncinal County, TexasEncinal County in the U.S. state of Texas was established on 1 February 1856 and was to consist of the eastern portion of Webb County. Encinal was to be its county seat. The county was never organized and was finally dissolved on 12 March 1899. The territory was absorbed into Webb County.-External...
(1856–1899, absorbed by Webb CountyWebb County, TexasWebb County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. The official 2010 population for the county is 250,304. In 2000, its population was 193,117, and in 2006 its population had been estimated to have reached to 231,470. Its county seat is Laredo...
) - Foley County, TexasFoley County, TexasFoley County is a defunct county in the U.S. state of Texas. It was located in the Big Bend area of far West Texas in what is now Brewster County.-History:...
(1887–1897, formed from part of Presidio CountyPresidio County, TexasPresidio County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. In 2000, its population was 7,304. Its county seat is Marfa. Presidio County is in the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas and is named for the ancient border settlement of Presidio del Norte.-Geography:Presidio County is triangular in...
, absorbed by Brewster CountyBrewster County, TexasBrewster County is a county located in western part of the US state of Texas, along the border with Mexico. It is one of the nine counties that comprise the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas. As of the 2000 census, the population is 8,866. In 2009, the population was estimated to be 9,481. Its...
) - Greer County, TexasGreer County, TexasGreer County, was a county created by the Texas legislature on February 8, 1860 , was land claimed by both Texas and the United States.-Origin of the dispute:...
(1888–1895, transferred to Oklahoma TerritoryOklahoma TerritoryThe Territory of Oklahoma was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from May 2, 1890, until November 16, 1907, when it was joined with the Indian Territory under a new constitution and admitted to the Union as the State of Oklahoma.-Organization:Oklahoma Territory's...
under a Supreme CourtSupreme Court of the United StatesThe Supreme Court of the United States is the highest court in the United States. It has ultimate appellate jurisdiction over all state and federal courts, and original jurisdiction over a small range of cases...
decision) - Miller County, Arkansas TerritoryMiller County, Arkansas TerritoryOld Miller County was created April 1, 1820 by the Arkansas Territorial Legislature. It included much of what is southeastern Oklahoma and the northeastern counties in Texas .The Act delineated Miller County as follows:The 1820 territorial census listed 999 residents in Miller County, 82 of them...
(1820–1825, became part of Indian TerritoryIndian TerritoryThe Indian Territory, also known as the Indian Territories and the Indian Country, was land set aside within the United States for the settlement of American Indians...
and present-day TexasTexasTexas is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state by area in the contiguous United States.The name, based on the Caddo word "Tejas" meaning "friends" or "allies", was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in...
) - Santa Fe County, Texas (1848–1850, abolished November 25, 1850; land ceded to United States in compliance with Compromise of 1850Compromise of 1850The Compromise of 1850 was a package of five bills, passed in September 1850, which defused a four-year confrontation between the slave states of the South and the free states of the North regarding the status of territories acquired during the Mexican-American War...
) - Wedgefarth County, Texas (1873–1876, abolished by Texas Legistlature)
- Worth County, Texas (1850, formed from part of Santa Fe County, abolished November 25, 1850; land ceded to United States in compliance with Compromise of 1850Compromise of 1850The Compromise of 1850 was a package of five bills, passed in September 1850, which defused a four-year confrontation between the slave states of the South and the free states of the North regarding the status of territories acquired during the Mexican-American War...
)
VermontVermontVermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
& Vermont RepublicVermont RepublicThe term Vermont Republic has been used by later historians for the government of what became modern Vermont from 1777 to 1791. In July 1777 delegates from 28 towns met and declared independence from jurisdictions and land claims of British colonies in New Hampshire and New York. They also...
- Cumberland County, Republic of VermontCumberland County, Republic of VermontCumberland County, Republic of Vermont was a short-lived county in Vermont, comprising two counties which seceded from New York in 1777: Cumberland County and Gloucester County. In 1781, this county was broken up into three counties in Vermont and one that eventually became part of New...
(1771–1781) - Cumberland County, Province of New York (claimed by and transferred to VermontVermontVermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
, unclear if ever implemented or administered). See Albany County, New YorkAlbany County, New YorkAlbany County is a county located in the U.S. state of New York, and is part of the Albany-Schenectady-Troy Metropolitan Statistical Area. The name is from the title of the Duke of York and Albany, who became James II of England . As of the 2010 census, the population was 304,204...
. - Gloucester County, New YorkGloucester County, New YorkGloucester County, New York is a former county in New York that became part of the state of Vermont. It was a part of Albany County in the Province of New York until 1770 and was lost to Vermont in 1777. At that time, Vermont was holding itself out as the Republic of Vermont and did not become a...
(claimed by and transferred to VermontVermontVermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
, unclear if ever implemented or administered). - Washington County, Republic of Vermont (1781–1782) land now in New Hampshire; Vermont relinquished claim; there is a present-day "new" Washington County, VermontWashington County, VermontWashington County is a county located in the U.S. state of Vermont. As of 2010, the population was 59,534; Vermont's third-most populous county after Chittenden County and Rutland County. Its shire town is Montpelier, the state capital. The center of population of Vermont is located in Washington...
VirginiaVirginiaThe Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
& Virginia Colony
See also Lost counties, cities and towns of Virginia.
- Alexandria County, D.C.Alexandria County, D.C.Alexandria County was part of the original 100-mile square created as the District of Columbia in 1791 pursuant to Article I, Section 8, paragraph 17, of the United States Constitution...
(retroceded to VirginiaRetrocession (District of Columbia)District of Columbia retrocession is the process of returning the land that was given to the federal government for the original purpose of creating the national capital. The District of Columbia was formed in 1791 from of land ceded by the states of Maryland and Virginia in accordance with the...
, most of which now comprises Arlington County, VirginiaArlington County, VirginiaArlington County is a county in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The land that became Arlington was originally donated by Virginia to the United States government to form part of the new federal capital district. On February 27, 1801, the United States Congress organized the area as a subdivision of...
with a portion becoming part of Alexandria, VirginiaAlexandria, VirginiaAlexandria is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of 2009, the city had a total population of 139,966. Located along the Western bank of the Potomac River, Alexandria is approximately six miles south of downtown Washington, D.C.Like the rest of northern Virginia, as well as...
) - Elizabeth City County, VirginiaElizabeth City County, VirginiaElizabeth City County was a county in southeastern Virginia from 1634 to 1952. Originally created in 1634 as Elizabeth River Shire, it was one of eight shires created in the Virginia Colony by order of the King of England. In 1636, it was subdivided, and the portion north of the harbor of Hampton...
(incorporated into the independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of HamptonHampton, VirginiaHampton is an independent city that is not part of any county in Southeast Virginia. Its population is 137,436. As one of the seven major cities that compose the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, it is on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula. Located on the Hampton Roads Beltway, it hosts...
in 1952) - Fincastle County, VirginiaFincastle County, VirginiaFincastle County, Virginia, was created in 1772 from Botetourt County, the boundaries of which extended all the way to the Mississippi River. Fincastle County was abolished in 1776, and divided into three new counties—Montgomery County, Washington County, and Kentucky County .Although no county...
(land now part of Kentucky) - Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed in 1778 and constituted most of present-day OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, and WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
; abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784. - Kentucky County, VirginiaKentucky County, VirginiaKentucky County was formed by the Commonwealth of Virginia by dividing Fincastle County into three new counties: Kentucky, Washington, and Montgomery, effective December 31, 1776. Four years later Kentucky County was abolished on June 30, 1780, when it was divided into Fayette, Jefferson, and...
(1777–1780) land that later became the state of KentuckyKentuckyThe Commonwealth of Kentucky is a state located in the East Central United States of America. As classified by the United States Census Bureau, Kentucky is a Southern state, more specifically in the East South Central region. Kentucky is one of four U.S. states constituted as a commonwealth...
in 1792 - Lower Norfolk County (Colonial Virginia) (in 1691, divided into Norfolk County, VirginiaNorfolk County, VirginiaNorfolk County was a county of the South Hampton Roads in eastern Virginia in the United States that was created in 1691. After the American Civil War, for a period of about 100 years, portions of Norfolk County were lost and the territory of the county reduced as they became parts of the separate...
and Princess Anne County, VirginiaPrincess Anne County, VirginiaPrincess Anne County is a former county which was created in the British Colony of Virginia and the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States in 1691. The county was merged into the city of Virginia Beach...
) - Nansemond County, VirginiaNansemond County, VirginiaNansemond County is an extinct county which was located in Virginia Colony and the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States, from 1646 until 1972...
became independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of NansemondNansemond, VirginiaNansemond is an extinct independent city which was located in the State of Virginia in the United States from 1972 until 1974. It was created from Nansemond County, Virginia, and is now part of the independent city of Suffolk, Virginia.-History:...
in 1972; merged with independent city of SuffolkSuffolk, VirginiaSuffolk is the largest city by area in Virginia, United States, and is located in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 84,585. Its median household income was $57,546.-History:...
in 1974 - New Norfolk County (Colonial Virginia) Formed in 1636 from Elizabeth River Shire, divided into Lower Norfolk County and Upper Norfolk County in 1637
- Norfolk County, VirginiaNorfolk County, VirginiaNorfolk County was a county of the South Hampton Roads in eastern Virginia in the United States that was created in 1691. After the American Civil War, for a period of about 100 years, portions of Norfolk County were lost and the territory of the county reduced as they became parts of the separate...
Formed in 1691 from part of Lower Norfolk County, was merged with independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of South NorfolkSouth Norfolk, VirginiaSouth Norfolk was an independent city in the South Hampton Roads region of eastern Virginia and is now a section of the City of Chesapeake, one of the cities of Hampton Roads which surround the harbor of Hampton Roads and are linked by the Hampton Roads Beltway.-History:Located a few miles south of...
to become new independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of ChesapeakeChesapeake, VirginiaAs of the census of 2000, there were 199,184 people, 69,900 households, and 54,172 families residing in the city. The population density was 584.6 people per square mile . There were 72,672 housing units at an average density of 213.3 per square mile...
in 1963 - Old Rappahannock County, Province of Virginia
- Princess Anne County, VirginiaPrincess Anne County, VirginiaPrincess Anne County is a former county which was created in the British Colony of Virginia and the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States in 1691. The county was merged into the city of Virginia Beach...
(Formed in 1691 from part of Lower Norfolk County, was merged with independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of Virginia Beach in 1963) - Upper Norfolk County (Colonial Virginia) (renamed Nansemond CountyNansemond County, VirginiaNansemond County is an extinct county which was located in Virginia Colony and the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States, from 1646 until 1972...
in 1642; see Nansemond County for subsequent history) - Warwick River County, VirginiaWarwick County, VirginiaWarwick County was a county in Southeast Virginia that was created from Warwick River Shire, one of eight created in the Virginia Colony in 1634. It became the City of Warwick on July 16, 1952...
(renamed Warwick County in 1642; became independent cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of Warwick in 1952; merged with cityIndependent cityAn independent city is a city that does not form part of another general-purpose local government entity. These type of cities should not be confused with city-states , which are fully sovereign cities that are not part of any other sovereign state.-Historical precursors:In the Holy Roman Empire,...
of Newport NewsNewport News, VirginiaNewport News is an independent city located in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area of Virginia. It is at the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula, on the north shore of the James River extending southeast from Skiffe's Creek along many miles of waterfront to the river's mouth at Newport News...
in 1958) - Yohogania County, Virginia (1776–1779) land now in PennsylvaniaPennsylvaniaThe Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a U.S. state that is located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The state borders Delaware and Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north, and New Jersey to...
and West VirginiaWest VirginiaWest Virginia is a state in the Appalachian and Southeastern regions of the United States, bordered by Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, Ohio to the northwest, Pennsylvania to the northeast and Maryland to the east...
Revolutionary-era claims of Virginia
- Illinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, VirginiaIllinois County, Virginia, was a geographic region captured from the British during the American Revolutionary War on July 4, 1778 by George Rogers Clark of the Virginia Army, and formally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia later that year, having an official governmental existence,...
, formed in 1778 and constituting Virginia's claimed lands in present-day IllinoisIllinoisIllinois is the fifth-most populous state of the United States of America, and is often noted for being a microcosm of the entire country. With Chicago in the northeast, small industrial cities and great agricultural productivity in central and northern Illinois, and natural resources like coal,...
, IndianaIndianaIndiana is a US state, admitted to the United States as the 19th on December 11, 1816. It is located in the Midwestern United States and Great Lakes Region. With 6,483,802 residents, the state is ranked 15th in population and 16th in population density. Indiana is ranked 38th in land area and is...
, MichiganMichiganMichigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
, OhioOhioOhio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
, and WisconsinWisconsinWisconsin is a U.S. state located in the north-central United States and is part of the Midwest. It is bordered by Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, Lake Michigan to the east, Michigan to the northeast, and Lake Superior to the north. Wisconsin's capital is...
; abolished 5 January 1782; territory ceded by Virginia to Congress in March 1784; see Illinois CountryIllinois CountryThe Illinois Country , also known as Upper Louisiana, was a region in what is now the Midwestern United States that was explored and settled by the French during the 17th and 18th centuries. The terms referred to the entire Upper Mississippi River watershed, though settlement was concentrated in...
and Northwest TerritoryNorthwest TerritoryThe Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, more commonly known as the Northwest Territory, was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from July 13, 1787, until March 1, 1803, when the southeastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Ohio...
. Wisconsin's non-native settlements of this era were peopled by British and Canadian fur traders, and it is unclear if Virginia ever attempted to exercise its jurisdiction in today's Wisconsin.
Counties of Wisconsin created by Michigan Territory
- Brown County, Michigan Territory, 1818; see Brown County, Wisconsin
- Crawford County, Michigan Territory, 1818; see Crawford County, Wisconsin
- Iowa County, Michigan Territory, 1829; see Iowa County, WisconsinIowa County, WisconsinIowa County is a county located in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of 2000, the population was 22,780. Its county seat and largest city is Dodgeville.Iowa County is part of the Madison Metropolitan Statistical Area.-Geography:According to the U.S...
- Milwaukee County, Michigan Territory, 1835; see Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Counties of Iowa created by Michigan Territory and transferred to Wisconsin Territory
- Des Moines County, Michigan Territory, 1834; see Des Moines County, IowaDes Moines County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 40,325 in the county, with a population density of . There were 18,535 housing units, of which 17,003 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Dubuque County, Michigan Territory, 1834; see Dubuque County, IowaDubuque County, IowaDubuque County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. The population was 93,653 in the 2010 census, an increase from 89,143 in the 2000 census. The county seat is the city of Dubuque. Dubuque County is coterminous with the Dubuque, Iowa Metropolitan Statistical Area, and is the seventh...
Counties of Iowa created by Wisconsin Territory
- Henry County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Henry County, IowaHenry County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,145 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,280 housing units, of which 7,666 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Lee County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Lee County, IowaLee County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 35,862 in the county, with a population density of . There were 16,205 housing units, of which 14,610 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Louisa County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Louisa County, IowaLouisa County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 11,387 in the county, with a population density of . There were 5,002 housing units, of which 4,346 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Muscatine County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Muscatine County, IowaMuscatine County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 42,745 in the county, with a population density of . There were 17,910 housing units, of which 16,412 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Van Buren County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Van Buren County, Iowa
- Henry County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Henry County, IowaHenry County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,145 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,280 housing units, of which 7,666 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Benton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Benton County, IowaBenton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 26,076 in the county, with a population density of . There were 11,095 housing units, of which 10,302 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Buchanan County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Buchanan County, IowaBuchanan County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,958 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,968 housing units, of which 8,161 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Cedar County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Cedar County, IowaCedar County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 13,956 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,064 housing units, of which 7,511 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Clayton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Clayton County, IowaClayton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 18,129 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,999 housing units, of which 7,599 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Clinton County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Clinton County, IowaClinton County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 49,116 in the county, with a population density of . There were 21,733 housing units, of which 20,223 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Delaware County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Delaware County, IowaDelaware County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 17,764 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,028 housing units, of which 7,062 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Fayette County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Fayette County, IowaFayette County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,880 in the county, with a population density of . There were 9,558 housing units, of which 8,634 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Jackson County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Jackson County, IowaJackson County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 19,848 in the county, with a population density of . There were 9,415 housing units, of which 8,289 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Johnson County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Johnson County, IowaJohnson County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 130,882 in the county, with a population density of . There were 55,967 housing units, of which 52,715 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Jones County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Jones County, IowaJones County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 20,638 in the county, with a population density of . There were 8,911 housing units, of which 8,151 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Keokuk County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Keokuk County, IowaKeokuk County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 10,511 in the county, with a population density of . There were 4,931 housing units, of which 4,408 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Linn County, Wisconsin Territory, 1836; see Linn County, IowaLinn County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 211,226 in the county, with a population density of . There were 92,251 housing units, of which 86,134 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Scott County, Wisconsin Territory, 1837; see Scott County, IowaScott County, Iowa-2010 census:The 2010 census recorded a population of 165,224 in the county, with a population density of . There were 71,835 housing units, of which 66,765 were occupied.-2000 census:...
- Slaughter County, Wisconsin Territory, 1838; see Washington County, Iowa
External links
- Ghost Counties: Your Guide to America's Dead, Forgotten Counties
- Atlas of Historical County Boundaries
- Handbook of Texas Online: DEFUNCT COUNTIES
- Iowa's Defunct Counties
- Defunct Kansas Counties
- Ancestry.com: County Boundaries & Boundary Changes
- Formation of South Carolina Counties
- SDGENWEB Extinct County Selection List
- Virginia Counties
- Missing Counties of Virginia
- Extinct Louisiana parishes and counties